FROM THE
BENNO LOEWY LIBRARY
COLLECTED BY
BENNO LOEWY
1854-1919
BEQUEATHED TO CORNELL UNIVERSITY
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HISTORY
OF THE
Lodge Canongate Kilwinning
NO. 2.
Compiled from the Records, 1677 — 1888.
BY
A L L A X M ACRE N Z I E,
Right Worshipful Master, 1883 — 1887 ; Member of Grand Committee, &c.
AND First Principal
, Canongate Kilwinning Royal Arch Chapter, No. 56.
frtttteb for tl)e l^oi%t bg ^totljer lamej! ^059, fiottlf |iank street.
MDCCCLXXXVIII.
-^1 /
A- ^y3/?5T
No. /A/..rr...
^OJ'
PREFACE.
'HEN an institution has survived the vicissitudes of
over two centuries, it becomes entitled to our vene-
ration and respect. It is therefore a fair subject of congratulation
that Canongate Kilwinning Lodge has not only existed for that
period, but has assembled in the same district, under the same name,
and for over one hundred and fifty years under the same roof.
In preparing this History, it has been found a somewhat difficult
task to condense the very large and varied amount of material into
the space at command. The work is almost exclusively a compilation
from the more interesting Minutes and Records of the Lodge, with
connecting and explanatory notes when necessary.
As Canongate Kilwinning Lodge is the eldest daughter of Mother
Kilwinning, there is, fortunately, no obscurity regarding the date of
her birth, and all discussion with reference to the antiquity of this
or that Lodge is avoided as quite beyond the purpose of this History.
It is enough to say that the great and continued interest in this
celebrated Lodge has prompted the present work.
In the words of the " Bi-Centenary Memorial" of 1877, "To her
ranks has come such a phalanx of the great and good in every field
4 preface.
of human activity, as might well make her the envy of the proudest
sister in the land. Her brightest names are not hers alone, but
Scotland's ; and among them many that posterity ' will not willingly
let die.' If she has basked in the sunshine, she has also felt the
shade ; but even then, as it is now, her watchword was the bright
characters of Hope engraven on her banner — ' Post Nubila Phcebus ' —
Behind the Clouds the Sun."
It is considered that the Autographs, Copy of Burns' Inauguration
Picture (with Key), Views of the Interior of the Lodge, and the
Fac-simile of the Charter of Confirmation of 1736, will be found
interesting.
The List of Selected Names given in the Appendix is only brought
down to 1857, that date being deemed sufficient for the present
time.
The Compiler has only further to add, that the often expressed
wish of many of its Members, as well as of numerous Brethren of the
Craft, for the publication of a short History of the Lodge, is now
complied with.
A. M'K.
May 1888.
CONTENTS.
Illustrations.
PAGB
Fac-simile of Charter of Confirmation facing 47
Photograph of Inauguration Picture of Burns as Poet-Laureate of the
Lodge, with Key ,, 108
View of Interior of Lodge-room, looking South-West ,, 196
Do, do, looking North-East, , , . . „ 230
CHAPTER I.
Charter of Constitution — Mother Lodge of Scotland — Building of present Hall —
Consecrated in presence of William St. Clair — The Lodge Property — Minute
Books — List of Office-bearers, 1734 — 1888 9
CHAPTER II.
St. John's Chapel — St. John Street — Distinguished Occupants — Canongate Kilwin-
ning Lodge — Celebrated Office-bearers — Portrait of William St. Clair — The
Earliest Minute — Third Degree — The Ballot — Proposals for a Grand Master
for Scotland — Initiation of William St. Clair of Rosslyn— Institution of the
Grand Lodge of Scotland — Election of St. Clair as first Grand Master —
Original Deed of Election, 26
CHAPTER III.
"Breeches" Bible — Confirmation of Charter of 1677 — Presentation of a "Set of
Songs" to Mother Kilwinning — Leith Kilwinning Lodge and Edinburgh St.
David — Dr. John Douglas, S.G.M. — Consecration of Lodge-room — Earl of
Kintore — Entrance Money 43
Ctontent^.
CHAPTER IV.
PAGE
Edinburgh Royal Infirmary — Lord Provosts as Wardens — Lodge at Rome — Murray
of Broughton — Duke of Perth — Reduction of Lodge Dues — ^Decreet Arbitral —
Puncheon of Rum from London — Report on Lodge Affairs — Irregular Election
in a Leith Lodge — Funeral Lodge — Earl of -Kilmarnock — Rev. Dr. Blair —
Viscount Kenmure — Lodge Titles — William Nisbet of Dirleton — The '
" Troubles of the Country," , 54
CHAPTER V.
The Rebellion — Earl of Buchan — George Frazer, R.W.M., etc. — Hugh Seton of
Touch, G.M. — Lord Drummore — Dues higher than other Lodges — Inventory
of Clothing — Charter for constituting a Lodge at Aleppo — Dr. Nathaniel
Spens — Report on Lodge Affairs, . . . . ' . . . . 67
CHAPTER yi.
Lord Provost Drummond — Beautifying the City — Robert and James Adams, Archi-
tects — Sir Ralph Abercromby, K.B. — Bruce, the Abyssinian Traveller — Edin-
burgh Exchange — Charles Hamilton Gordon, G.M. — James Coutts, of Coutts
& Co., Londpn — New Organ — Lord Aberdour, G.M. — Sir James Hunter
Blair — Sir Alexander Dick, , from the Lodge at Rome — St. Giles' Lodge —
James Boswell, Biographer of Dr. Jolinsoh — Sir William Forbes, of Pit-
sligo, Bart. — M'Donnell of Glengarry — Cameron of Fassifern — Dr. John
Boswell, 77
CHAPTER VII.
Uniformity of Working in Lodges — The Canongate Theatre — St. Andrew's Festivals
— Sir John Whitefoord — 8th Earl of Dalhousie — Funeral Lodge for George
Drummond — Charity Workhouse of Edinburgh — Lodge of Dalkeith — Lord
Napier — The Scots Greys' Lodge — ^Sir John Sinclair of Ulbster — James
Boswell of Auchinleck — Masters' Meeting — Death of William St. Clair of
Rosslyn — Alexander Naesmyth, Artist — Union with Haddington Lodge and
with Vernon Kilwinning — The Lodge-room for Mother Kilwinning — Earl
of Balcarres-^Henry Erskine — John Beugo, Engraver 87
dLotittntfi.
CHAPTER VIII.
PAGE
Affiliation of Robert Burns — Inauguration as Poet-Laureate of the Lodge — Corre-
spondence on the Subject — Lodge Subscription to Mausoleum Fund in Dum-
fries — Celebration of Centenary of Inauguration, 1st March 1887, . . . 108
CHAPTER IX.
Roman Eagle Lodge — The New University — Earl of Ancrum and Lord Doune —
Charitable Purposes — New Freemasons' Hall — Diploma of 179 1, . . . 127
CHAPTER X.
Lord Brougham — George, gth Earl of Dalhousie — Dispute with Thistle Lodge — Irish
Lodge, No. S70, 140
CHAPTER XI.
Caledonian Lodge — Secession of five Lodges from Grand Lodge — Reasons of Seced-
ing Lodges — Re-union with Grand Lodge — ^Joint Meeting of City Lodges, . 153
CHAPTER XII.
Foundation Stones of Regent Bridge and New Jail — Deacons— .Supreme Royal Arch
Chapter of Scotland — Grand Lodge and the Higher Degrees— Celtic
Lodge 170
CHAPTER XIII.
Corresponding Member in London — H.M. George IV. — National Monument —
Objections to an Assistant Grand Secretary — Entrance changed from St.
John's Close — Knight Templars, .... .... 184
CHAPTER XIV.
Initiation of James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd — Election as Poet-Laureate of the
Lodge — Lord Ramsay — Polish Brethren — Lord Dudley Coutts Stuart,
M.P 200
CHAPTER XV.
Centenary of Grand Lodge — Sir Walter Scott's Monument — Lodge Diploma Plate —
Ladies in Mary's Chapel, No. i, 212
(fTontrnts.
CHAPTER XVI.
Drummond of Hawthornden — Ancient Die of the Seal of the Lodge — Consecration
and Erection of Lodge St. Clair, No. 349 — Lieutenant Walter Scott, of
Abbotsford — Members of Canongate Kilwinning who have been 'Grand
Masters — List of Lodges "in and about" Edinburgh — Dr. R. Morris,
Poet-Laureate of Freemasonry in America — Bi-Centenary of the Lodge,
APPENDIX.
Records and Objects of Interest in possession of the Lodge 234
Selected Names from the Roll of Members 237
Poem— "The Laureate Wreath," 248
Poets-Laureate of the Lodge, 249
Index, . , 250
HISTORY
OF THE
^anoxxQaie S^UxvinnixxQ SobQe, Wo. 2,
St. John's Chapel, St. John Street, Edinburgh.
Instituted 1677.
I
CHAPTER I.
'T appears that the Masons in the Canongate obtained a
Charter from the Mother Lodge of Scotland at Kilwinning
in the year 1677. As will afterwards be seen, the appli-
cation for this Charter was dated 6th December of that year. It was
renewed in the year 1736. The Lodge is there styled the St. John's,
and, from sundry documents, it appears that the name by which it
was generally known was the St. John's, or Canongate Kilwinning
Lodge, and sometimes the " Honourable " Lodge of St. John's. For
some years previous to 1735, to all appearance, the Lodge had been
dormant. Subsequent to that year, however, there have been kept
regular Minute-Books, and these, with sundry other documents, in-
cluding the Charter of Confirmation from the Mother Lodge, are in
preservation. There are, however, a variety of documents connected
with this subsequent period which cannot now be found. These
consist, principally, of the Bye-Laws and Regulations, and various
early writings as to the property of the Lodge. There is little doubt
that these have been, from time to time, taken out of the Charter
Chest by those who have had access thereto, and, through negligence
or other causes, have not been replaced.
The Hall where the Lodge hold their meetings at present was built
in the^ear 1736, and is now, it is believed, the oldest Masonic Lodge-
Room in the world. The Records do not afford distinct evidence to
show that, previous thereto, the Lodge held their meetings in a hall
of which they were the proprietors ; or, if so, that the present one was
built on the site thereof. It is recorded that, for a time previous to
this hall being erected, the meetings were held in the house of William
Clark, Vintner, and that, in the early part of the year, the erection of
the present hall was resolved upon ; but it is not shown what steps had
been taken to secure property for that purpose, or how it was acquired.
It is, however, evident that, previous to building the hall, authority
had been obtained for that purpose, as appears from the following
entry in the Treasurer's accounts : — " 1739, Augt. ist. Spent in John
Simpson's when Mrs. Isobel Grierson (discharged a decr&et arbitral,
and signed a declaration relative to some missives; giving authority to
George Fraser to build." As to the decreet arbitral here alluded to,
the following clause is in the Minutes of a meeting of the same date : —
" The Treasurer reported that he had paid to Isobel Grierson the sum
of Four Pounds and Four Shillings, sterling, in consequence of a de-
creet arbitral upon a submission by this Lodge and her to Brother
Thomas Trotter and John Jack, Sclater, anent apiece 0/ ground upon
which part of this Lodge- Room was built."
The building was begun in August, and was so far completed
on the 1 8th December of the same year, as to be consecrated by
George Frazer, in presence of William St. Clair of Roslin, G.M., and
the Grand Lodge of Scotland. The work, however, does not appear
to have been completely finished till March 1737, and it cost nearly
;^400. It appears that the Members subscribed each ;^ 3, 3s. towards
defraying the expense, but a great proportion was paid out of the
ordinary funds, and it was some years before the debt was entirely dis-
charged. George Frazer, who was Master at the time, had the sole
charge of getting the w6rk carried on. He purchased the materials
and employed workmen, collected the subscriptions of the Members,
S^e ILobfit ^roptrtg, tt
and paid the accounts so far. There does not appear, however, to have
been any account of his intromissions rendered to the Lodge. In the
year 1768 the hall underwent repairs, costing nearly ^^300, and in
1784 it was further repaired at a considerable expense.
Until 1833 access to the Lodge lay through St. John's Close, the
hall being built across the extreme end of it ; and the east wall within
the plot of ground which belonged to Mrs. Grierson's representatives
divided St. John Street and St. John's Close. There would seem to
have been no titles on completing the building; but soon thereafter,
frequent notices occur in the Minutes as to the making up of titles to
the property, the delay being shown to have arisen in consequence of a
dispute betwixt the Lodge and George Frazer, who had charge of
the building of the hall, and was in possession of the papers relative
thereto. This dispute arose from Mr. Frazer refusing to deliver up
those papers until some debts, due on account of building the hall,
for which he was responsible, were paid. The settlement of these
debts was subsequently arranged, as is shown by the records, after
which Mr. Frazer delivered up the papers of which he had possession.
The Committee of 4th October 1752, to draw up the titles, was then
appointed, Mr. Frazer (who had again been elected Master) being one
of the Committee. It is evident that they completed such titles
as were requisite, and that the same were placed in the hands of
some of the Office-bearers, who, however, neglected to deposit them
among the Records. After extensive alterations to the property in
1833, when the entrance was changed to St. John Street, proper titles
were obtained and duly recorded.
The Lodge celebrated its Bi-Centenary on 20th December 1877,
and the Meeting, which was presided over by Sir Michael Shaw
Stewart, Grand Master Mason of Scotland, was attended by many
eminent Craftsmen, — the Right Worshipful Master of the Lodge at
that time having been Brother John Middleton, M.D. The Charter to
the Lodge, which may be fairly termed the " Premier Scottish Warrant
of Constitution," runs as follows : —
t2 Zljt (S-Axtoni^iLtt ^tltDtntttng |Do)>ge/^o. 2.
"At the ludge of Killwining the twentie day of december 1677 yeares
deacons and wardanes and the rest of the brethren considering the love and
favour showne to us be the rest of the brethren of the cannigate in edin-
burghe ane part of our number being willing to be boked & inroled the
qch day gives power & liberty to them to enter receave and pase ony qualified
persons that they think fitt in name and behalf of the ludge of Killwining &
to pay ther entry and booking moneys due to the sd ludge as we do our
selves they sending on of ther number to us yearly and we to do the lyke to
them if need be. The qlk day ther names ar insert into this book ..."
This document was signed by twelve brethren, each of whom ad-
hibited his mark, and it is engrossed verbatim in the Books of the
Mother Lodge,
With exception of a few blanks which occur between October 1863
and November 1868, the Minutes have been regularly recorded down
to the present time, and are contained in seven volumes — the first
ending loth June 1760 ; the second, 24th June 1815 ; the third, 22nd
February 1843 ; the fourth, 6th May 1857; the fifth, 17th October
1877 ; the sixth, 24th June 1885 ; and the seventh is at present in use.
The Roll of Members, containing several thousand names, is carefully
written in alphabetical order and bound in two handsome volumes.
Selected names from the Roll, the Committees, and minor Office-
bearers, are given, as the work proceeds, and here is appended a com-
plete list of the principal Office-bearers (as introduced last century)
down to the current year, 1887. The office of Substitute Master was
not instituted till the year 1788, when Mr. John Miller, Advocate,
the Historian, was the first elected to that post. The want of a Sub-
stitute Master appears rather curious from the fact that Dr. John
Douglas, who was R.W.M. for several years subsequent to 1736, was,
during the same period. Substitute Grand Master. There were no
such offices as Senior and Junior Deacons during last century, the
first appointment of that nature having taken place in 18 16. When
re-elections took place in consecutive years, it has been considered
unnecessary to repeat the names in the following list.
#fifte-btA«riS from 1734 to 1748. ^i
LIST OF OFFICE-BEARERS.
ELECTION DAY, ^th JUNE.
o
Elected
•734-35- Thomas Trotter, Merchant, .... R.W.M.
Richard Bulkeley, S.W.
Edward Miller J.W.
David Home, W.S., Treasurer.
George Frazer, Depute Auditor of Excise, . Secretary.
1735. Do. Do. . . R.W.M.
Robert Blisset, Attorney in Exchequer, . . D.M.
David Home, W.S S.W.
William Robertson, J.W.
Thomas Trotter, Merchant, P.M., . . . Treasurer.
James Cummyng, Secretary.
1736. George Crawford S.W.
Francis Kemptie J.W.
Alexander Hunter, Merchant, . . . Treasurer.
Alexander Lindsay, Secretary,
1737. Dr. John Douglas, Substitute Grand Master, . R.W.M.
William Congalton, of that Ilk, . . . S.W.
George Loch J.W.
David Home, William Seaton, with James
Cummyng their Deputy, .... Secretaries.
1738. George Loch S.W.
James Colhoun, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, . J.W.
1739. Do. Do. Do. . S.W.
John Brown, Bailie, J.W.
1740. Do. Do S.W.
John M'Farlane, W.S J.W.
1741. All Re-Elected.
1742. Do.
1743. David Maul, W.S., D.M.
Joseph Watson Secretary.
1744. Thomas Allan, Lord Dean of Guild, . . . D.M.
1745. Andrew Hay of Mugdrum, D.M.
1746. All Re-Elected.
1747. Do.
1748. Andrew Hay of Mugdrum; R.W.M.
William Robertson S.W.
Richard Cooper, J.W.
M
Zljt QDattonjiate l&tltoinntttg l^obge, ^o. 2.
1749. All Re-Elected.
1750. Dr. John Douglas. (Second time.)
Robert Blisset, Attorney, .
John Brown, Bailie, .
Robert Douglas,
1751. John Murray, Druggist,
1752. George Frazer. (Second time.)
James Hardie, W.S
I753' John Murray, Druggist,
James Hardie, W.S. .
Robert Fleming,
Kenneth Williamson,
1754. John Lumsdaine of Stravithy, .
Andrew Alison, Bailie,
Dr. Nathaniel Spens of Craigsanquhar,
P. Robertson, Jeweller,
Alexander Orme, W.S., .
1755. John Murray, Druggist,
Laurence Inglis,
1756. James Stewart, Bailie,
Colin Drummond, M.D., .
James Fergus, Architect, .
1757. David Ross of Inverchasley, Advocate,
John Wightman of Maulsley,
Alexander Orme, W.S., .
Sir James Hunter Blair, Lord Provost, etc,
1758. WALTERSTEUARTofSteuarthall, Advocate. S
P. Robertson, Jeweller,
John Hutton, Merchant, .
1759. Dr. John Boswell, ....
Dr. James Lind of Gorgie, .
1760. Alexander Drummond, late H. M. Consul at
Aleppo. M.W.G.M. .
Andrew Alison, Bailie, . .
1761. Dr. James Lind of Gorgie, .
Sir William Forbes of Pitsligo, Bart.,
Dr. John Cairnie, ....
William Moubray
1 762. George Frazer, Depute Auditor of Excise. (Third
time.) . ■ • , •
Sir William Forbes of/Pitsligo, Bart.,
Alexander Elfhingston, .
James Stewart, Bailie, . .
S.G,
.W.
, etc.,
G.W.
R.W.M.
D.M.
S.W.
Secretary.
J.W.
R.W.M.
Secretary.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer.
Secretary.
R.W.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer.
Secretary.
D.M.
Secretary.
S.W.
J.W.
Secretary.
R.W.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer.
R.W.M.
S.W.
J.W.
D.M.
J.W.
R.W.M.
-D.M.
S.W,
J.W.
Treasurer.
Secretary.
R.W.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Secretary;
©ffite^beanw from 1763 to 1777.
IS
1763.
All Re-Elected,
1764.
Georoe Drummond, Lord Provost of Edinburgh.
M.W.G.M
R.W.M.
Magnus Henderson,
Secretary.
1765.
David Polson,
S.W.
George Couper
J.W.
William Mercer
Treasurer.
William Drquhart,
Secretary.
1766.
Andrew Alison, Bailie
R.W.M.
Alex. Elphingstone, ....
D.M.
1767.
Dr. James Boswell, Biographer of Dr. Johnson
D.M.
Dr. John Cairnie
S.W.
Simon Fraser, Advocate, ....
Secretary.
1768.
All Re-Elected.
1769.
Dr. James Lind of Gorgie, ....
R.W.M. /
Dr. John Cairnie,
D.M.
Archibald Buchan,
S.W.
Andrew Wood,
J.W.
John Pattullo
Secretar)'.
1770.
All Re-Elected.
I77I.
Alexander Orme, W.S
R.W.M.
William Mercer,
D.M.
John Pattullo
S.W.
John Welsh
J.W.
Matthew Newton,
Treasurer.
William Keith,
Secretary.
1772.
All Re-Elected.
1773.
Dr. James Boswell of Auchinleck, Biographer o
f
Dr. Johnson
. R.W.M.
John Pattullo
. D.M.
^ Simon Eraser, Advocate
S.W.
Robert Menzies,
J.W.
William Greenfield
Secretary.
«774-
All Re-Elected.
>77S-
Simon Eraser, Advocate
. D.M.
Dr. David Spence
. S.W.
Dr. Thomas Hay
. J.W.
James Hay, W.S
Secretary.
1776.
Simon Eraser, Advocate
. R.W.M.
Dr. David Spence,
. D.M.
James Hay, W.S
S.W.
Dr. James Hamilton
. J.W.
John Oliphant, Bookseller,
Treasurer.
William Lumsdkn
Secretary.
1777-
David Stewart, Lord Provost, .
Secretary.
1 6 Sri)t Canongate PiltDtnning %oti%t, fio. 2.
1778. Dr. Nathaniel Spens of Craigsanquhar, . , R.W.M.
Dr. Thomas Hav D.M.
David Stewart, Lord Trovost, .... S.W.
William Balderstqn J.W.
William Mercer Treasurer.
Mills Thomas, Secretary,
1779. William Scott, Banker Secretary,
1780. Hon. Henry Erskine, Advocate, . . . R.W.M.
Charles Hay, Advocate — Lord Newton, . , i D.M.
a; Wallace S.W.
H. BUCHAN J.W.
Sir John Hay of Smithfield and Haystoun, Bart., . Secretary.
1781. Dr. Thomas Hay R.W.M.
Dr. James Hamilton, ,D.M,
Francis Buchan S.W.
Sir John Hay of Smithfield and Haystoun, Bart., . J.W.
Bothwell Drummond, Secretary.
1782. All Re-Elected.
1783. J. H. Engelhart S.W.
Charles More of the Royal Bank, . . .J.W.
George Spankie Treasurer.
Samuel Anderson, Secretary.
1784. Alexander Fergusson of Craigdarroch, \ . R.W.M.
Charles More of the Royal Bank, . . .D.M.
James Law S.W.
Samuel Anderson, J.W.
Sir Henry Jardine, Advocate Secretary.
1785. All Re-Elected.
1786. William' Dunbar, W.S., Colonel of " The Croch-
allan Fencibles," S.W.
John Miller, Advocate — the Historian, . . J.W.
Robert Burns, the Poet P.L. ,
John Mercer Secretary.
1787. gth Lord Torphichen— James Sandilands, . . R.W.M.
William Dunbar, W.S D.M.
John Miller, Advocate, S.W.
Lindsay Carnegie J.W.
1788. William Dunbar, W.S R.W.M.
Sir Henry Jardine, Advocate, .... D.M.
John Miller, Advocate S.M.
Andrew Forbes, S.W.
John Mercer, J.W.
William Lehrie, Secretary.
©fKce^bearerji front 1789 to 1798,
17
1789.
Dr. James M. Adair, S.W.
Dr. Thomas Young, .
J.W.
Robert Moir,
Secretary.
1790.
Sir Henry Jardine, Advocate,
Dr. Thomas Cochrane,
William Lehrie, . . /
R. Hepburn,
Robert Moir,
H. S. Mercer,
. R.W.M.
D.M.
S.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Secretary.
1791-
All Re-Elected.
1792.
Dr. Thomas Cochrane,
Dr. William Farquharson,
Robert Moir,
Dr. J. Slannet, .
Captain Swindall,
William Robertson, .
R.W.M.
D.M.
S.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Secretary.
1793-
Dr. W. Farquharson,
Robert Moir,
Dr. James 1^. Adair, .
Captain Swindall,
Robert Wilson, .
T. ASPLIN
R.W.M.
D.M.
S.M.
• S.W.
J.W.
Secretary.
1794-
Captain Swindall,
Dr. Thomas Spens,
J. ASPLIN, ....
J. Cunningham, .
S.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Secretary.
I79S-
Robert Moir,
Dr. Thomas Spens,
J. ASPLIN
C. Cunningham, .
James Dickson, .
R.W.M.
D.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Secretary.
1796.
C. Cunningham,
James Dickson, ....
R. Scott Moncrieff,
S.W.
J.W.
Secretary.
1797-
C. Cunningham
James Dickson, ....
R. Scott Moncrieff, .
Alex. Jaffray, Advocate, .
■
D.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Secretary.
1798.
H. S. Mercer, W.S. ("whose father for twenty years
held offices of Steward, Treasurer, and De
pute Master of this Lodge "),
R.W.M.
R. Scott Moncrieff, ....
S.W.
Alexander Jaffray, Advocate, .
J.W.
George Buchanan, .
.
Secretary.
i8
^\jt (S,»wm%&tt PtlwinnTng l^obge, fLo. 2.
1799.
R. Scorr Moncrieff
. D.M.
Alexander Jaffray, Advocate, .
. S.W.
George Buchanan
. J.W.
William Ballantine,
Secretary.
1800.
All Re-Elected.
I80I.
Alexander Jaffray, Advocate, .
. R.W.M.
William Ballantine,
. D.M.
John Russell
. S.M.
William Campbell, W.S.,
. S.W.
Joseph Dixon,
. J.W.
John More, jun
Secretary.
1802.
All Re-Elected.
1803.
Joseph Dixon
. S.M.
James LAng, W.S., .
. S.W.
William Douglas, . . . .
. . J.W.
James Dickson,
Treasurer.
John Leven,
Secretary.
1804.
Robert Moir. (Second time.) .
. R.W.M.
James Lang, W.S., .
. S.M.
William Lang, Advocate, .
. S.W.
John S./Lawson, W.S.,
. . J.W.
Robert S. Cunningham, .
Secretary.
1805.
Paul Taylor
Secretary
1806.
John S. Lawson, W.S
. R.W.M.
James Lang, W.S
. D.M.
W. W. Brown
. S.M.
Archd. M'Nab,
. ' . S.W.
Andrew Stivens
. . J.W.
1807.
All Re-Elected.
1808.
John Mill,
Treasurer.
1809.
James Harrower
. D.M.
iSio.
Andrew Stivens, . . . .
. , S.M.
J. M'Donnell,
. . J.W.
1811:
All Re-Elected.
1812,
Do.
1813.
Alexander Jaffray, Advocate. (Secc
mdtime.). R.W.M.
J. M'Donnell, ....
. S.W.
Geo. Simson, W.S
. . J.W.
1814.
Do. ...
. R.W.M.
James Neilson
. S.M.
Charles Stewart, .
. S.W.
Archd. Kennedy,
. . J.W.
#fC(ce=beareriS front 1815 to 1828.
19
1815.
George Burnet, Advocate,
. R.W.M.
Alex. L. Robertson, W.S.,
. S.W.
William Horne,
. . J.W.
Paul Taylor
Treasurer.
David Birrell
Secretary.
I8I6.
Alexander L. Robertson, W.S.,
. S.M.
William Horne,
. S.W.
Andrew Robertson, .
. . J.W.
I8I7.
George Douglas, Advocate,
. D.M.
William Horne,
. S.W.
James Hawkins, Advocate,
. . J.W.
Archibald Horne, G.P.O.,
Treasurer.
I8I8.
William Horne,
. S.M.
James Hawkins, Advocate,
. S.W.
William Tait
. . J.W.
I8I9.
Alexander L. Robertson, W.S.,
. R.W.M.
John Aytoun of Inchdaimie,
. D.M.
C. LUMSDEN, W.S.,
. S.W.
Simon F. M'Intosh, W.S., .
. . J.W.
1820.
William Horne,
. D.M.
C. Lumsden, W.S
. S.M.
Simon F. M'Intosh, W.S., .
. S.W.
Donald F. Mackenzie, W.S., .
. . J.W.
I82I.
C. Lumsden, W.S., . . . .
. D.M.
Simon F. M'Intosh, W.S., .
. S.M.
K. Mackenzie
. S.W,
MiCHIE Gleig, ....
. . J.W.
1822.
Archibald Marshall,
Secretary and Treasurer.
1823.
Walter Dickson, W.S., .
. S.W.
John Moffat, M.D., .
. . J.W.
1824.
George Rutherford,
. . J.W.
John Moffat, M.D., .
Treasurer.
1825.
All Re-Elected.
1826.
David Birrell
. D.M.
John Russell, Advocate, .
. S.M.
David Brown, jun., W.S., .
Treasurer.
1827.
Alexander M'Neill, Advocate,
. S.M.
George W. Maxwell of Cawachan,
. S.W.
Robert H. Liston of the Royal Bank,
. . J.W.
1828.
George Rutherford,
. D.M.
Robert H. Liston,
. S.W.
George Ritchie, W.S.,
. . J.W.
John Brown, W.S
Treasurer.
20
Sr|)e (Sianonsate |&tliDtnning %c:ii%t, ^o. 2.
1829. George Ritchie, W.S.,
A. Morrison, W.S., .
1830. Alexander M'Neill, Advocate,
Robert Kennedy,
John Saunders, .
1831. Andrew Dun, .
George Ritchie, W.S.,
William M. Gunn, LL.D.,
Robert Reid,
John Forbes, ....
James M'Millan,
1832. William M. Gunn, LL.D.,
Robert Reid,
John Abercromby,
George Scott, .
1833; Charles M'Dougall, Advocate,
Robert Robertson, .
Ludovich ColquhouN,
John Leslie,
Peter Anderson, W.S.,
Anthony Trail, W.S.,
1834. W. B. D. D. Turnbull, Advocate,
John Leslie,
John Abercromby,
Francis G. Soutar, .
A. Mackie
1835. Robert BLACKVirooD, Publisher,
George Gumming, W.S., .
Anthony Trail, W.S.,
James Deans,
James Hogg, "The Ettrick Shepherd,
1836. James Jardine, Advocate, .
William Hay, . . ~ .
1837. John Wilson, " Christopher North,
W. J. DOWLIN,
H. Hag ART
Andrew Dunlop,
1838. Henry Jardine, Advocate, .
James Jardine, .
Prof. William E. Aytoun,
H. Hag art,
James Blair of Glenfoot,
Dr. Sinclair,
S.W.
J.W.
R.W.M.
S.M.
Secretary.
D.M.
S.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer.
Secretary.
S.M.
S.W,
J.W.
Treasurer.
D.M.
S.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer.
Secretary.
' S.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer.
Secretary.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer.
Secretary.
P.L.
S.M.
P.L.
D.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer.
R.W.M.
D.M.
S.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer,
#ffice=beaterg from 1839 to 1847. 21
1839. William Edmonstoune Aytoun, Professor of
Rhetoric and Belles Lettres, . . . R.W.M.
Archibald Smith, Advocate S.M.
James Blair of Glenfoot S.W.
Alexander Gumming, J.W.
1840. Archibald Smith, Advocate, .... D.M.
James Blair of Glenfoot, S.M.
W. J. Pattison, S.W.
H. COCKBURN J.W.
N. P. C. Lloyd Secretary.
1841. James Blair of Glenfoot R.W.M.
George Cumming, W.S., D.M.
Andrew Dunlop, W.S S.M.
A. D. Campbell, W.S S.W.
Samuel SoMERViLLE of Ampherlaw, M.D., . J.W.
John Davidson, M.D Secretary.
1842. Archibald Smith, Advocate, .... R.W.M.
A. D. Campbell, W.S D.M.
' Samuel Somerville, M.D., .... S.M.
H. H. M'Lean, S.W.
H. F. M'Lean, W.S., J.W.
John Wilson Treasurer.
E. W. Lane, M.D P.L.
1843. Samuel Somerville of Ampherlaw, M.D., . R.W.M.
W. J. Pattison, S.M.
Alex. J. Stewart, W.S. Grand Clerk, . . S.W.
James Neilson J.W.
William Mowbray, .... Secretary and Treasurer.
1S44. Do. S.M.
Alex. Campbell Rankin, . . . Secretary and Treasurer.
1845. A. D. Campbell, W.S R.W.M.
William Mowbray D.M.
James Hunter S.M.
James Neilson S.W.
James A. Campbell J.W.
Charles Robertson Secretary and Treasurer.
1846. James Neilson, S.S.C S.M.
William Henderson, W.S., .... S.W.
James Savege j.W.
Francis Nicoll, P.L.
1847. . Do. S.M.
Charles Robertson S.W.
George Moncrieff, J.W.
Archibald C. Mowbray, , . . Secretary and Treasurer,
22 ^I)e CTanongate ^tlmtnnins l^obge, ^o. 2.
1848. James Savege, D.M.
Alexander Penrose Miller S.M.
Stewart Watson, Artist, S.W.
J. D. Buchanan Hay J.W.
1849. All Re-Elected.
1850. Archibald C. Mowbray, ..... R.W.M.
Captain James Hunter, D.M.
Stewart Watson, Artist S.M.
J. D. Buchanan Hay, S.W.
William Fergusson J.W.
William Watson Treasurer.
Robert C. Mackenzie, . .' . . . Secretary.
James Marshall P.L.
1851. J. D. Buchanan Hay, S.M.
R. C. Mackenzie, S.W.
Thos. E. O. Horne, W.S J.W.
Stewart Watson, Artist, . . . Secretary and Treasurer.
' N. J.iMausabinis P.L.
1852. Alex. J. Stewart, W.S., D.M.
Sir John Don Wauchope of Edmonston, Bart., . S.M.
T. E. O. Horne, W.S S.W.
John Ogilvy, . J.W.
1853. William Nathaniel Eraser of Tornaveen, . R.W.M.
Lord Loughborough (Earl of Rosslyn. M.W.G.M.) D.M.
Alex. J. Stewart, W.S., S.M.
William Wilkinson S.W.
William D. M'Neil J.W.
William Pringle, P.L.
1854. All Re-Elected.
1855. Alex. J. Stewart, W.S., D.M.
William D. M'Neil S.M.
P. B. Simpson, S.W.
David Crawford J.W.
1856. Thomas Drybrough, R.W.M.
David Crawford .D.M.
Andrew WAtson, S.M.
H. W. M'Vitie . S.W.
D. W. Bowie ' . . J.W.
William Hickman, Treasurer.
1857. H. W. M'Vitie, D.M.
1858. Captain Griffiths D.M.
Dr. Hall, S.M.
Mich. Dodd, S.W.
J. Zeirvogal, J.W.
©IR«=be«rtw from 1859 to 1873.
1859. William Hickman D.M.
Robert Stewart S.M.
C. W. M. MULLER S.W.
William Henry, J.W.
J. M. M'CuLLOCH, Banker Treasurer.
i860. Alex. L. Robertson, W.S. (Second time.) . R.W.M.
Robert Stewart, D.M.
C. W. M. Muller, S.M.
William Henry S.W.
George H. Ebsworth J.W.
1861. James Winchester, LL.D., .... D.M.
T. A. Hill S.W.
George H. Ebsworth, J.W.
Thomas Drybrough, P.M Treasurer.
1862. William G. Henry, Merchant R.W.M.
Thos. a. Hill S.M.
G. H. Ebsworth, S.W.
Dr. H. R. Veale J.W.
1863. Do. S.W.
J. SCHOPP J.W.
1864. I2th Earl of Strathmore — Thomas Bowes Lyon, R.W.M.
1865. William N. Fraser of Tornaveen. (Second time.) R.W.M.
1866. Re- Elected.
1867. George Melville R.W.M.
1868. Thomas A. Hill R.W.M.
1869. Re-Elected.
1870. John W. Barrie R.W.M.
R. RowAND Anderson, LL.D D.M.
Charles Reid, S.M.
J. A. Stevenson S.W.
D. B. Barrie, J.W.
D. S. Buchanan, Secretary.
1871. Re-Elected.
1872. Johann Schopp, R.W.M.
D. S. Buchanan, D.M.
James Scrymgbour S.W.
Otto J. Leyde, Artist J.W.
Captain Laurence Archer P.L.
H. C. Peacock, Secretary.
1873. Dr. John Middleton, D.M.
H. E. Jonas, S.W.
H. K. Driggs J.W.
24 ^i)e Cftnongatt fliliotnntng |[obge, fLo. 2.
1874. D. P, Cotton, S.W.
Alwin W. Beda, J.W.
1875. H. E. Jonas, S.M.
R. RowAND Anderson, LL.D S.W.
L. Spanier, J.W.
1876. G. H. Ebsworth D.M.
R. RowAND Anderson, LL.D., .... S.M,
R. W. M. MuLLER, C.E J.W.
H. Drechsel, I . Secretary.
1877. John Middleton, M.D., Member of Grand Com-
mittee, R.W.M.
R. RowAND Anderson, LL.D., .... D.M.
Louis Spanier, S.M.
R. W. M. MuLLER, C.E., S.W.
T. G. Plumber, J.W.
1878. L. Spanier . . . D.M.
Dr. Bryan C. Waller S.M.
T. G. Plumber, S.W.
Andrew Stevenson, M.A., .... J.W.
H. C. Peacock, Secretary.
1879. Louis Spanier R.W.M.
Andrew Stevenson, M.A S.M.
David S. Lowson, M.A., . . . . . S.W.
Bryan C.Waller, M.D., P.L.
1880. Bryan Charles Waller of Masongill, M.D., . R.W.M.
David S. Lowson, M.A.-, S.M. '
James O. Steven J.W.
Andrew Stevenson, M.A., .... P.L.
1881. Charles Bertie S.W.
J. R. m!'Minim J.W.
1882. David S. Lowson, M.A R.W.M.
Charles Bertie, D.M.
J. R. M'MiNiM, S.M.
Robert Smith S.W.
Allan Mackenzie J.W.
William Corbet Treasurer.
1S83. Allan Mackenzie, Member of Grand Committee, R.W.M.
Robert A. Taylor, D.M.
Robert Smith S.M.
B. Langley Mills, M.D S.W.
A. M. Sutherland , J.W.
1884. James Drummond, W.S S.W.
A. P. Cattanach, . . . . . .J.W.
®fitcerbearer{t from 1885 to 1887.
25"
1885.
Robert Smith D.M.
H. C. Peacock, U.S. Vice-Consul,
. S.M.
James Drummond, W.S., .
. S.W.
J. M'Intyke Henry, Architect, .
. J.W.
R. A. Taylor, Accountant, .
Treasurer.
J. Rae Shand, S.S.C,
Secretary.
1886.
James Drummond, W.S., .
J. Rae Shand, S.S.C,
J. M. Henry, Architect,
P. W. Gray, ....
A. P. Cattanach,
D.M.
. S.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Secretary.
1887.
James Drummond, W.S.,
J. M'Intyre Henky, .
A. P. Cattanach
P. W. Gray,
J. Rae Sham), S.S.C,
A. Mackenzie, P.M., .
J. Fulton Smith, ....
■
K.W.^t.
D.M.
S.M.
S.W.
J.W.
Treasurer.
Secretary.
CHAPTER II.
j^HE CANONGATE KILWINNING LODGE, or St.
* I John's Chapel, is situated in St. John Street — " one of
-^ the heralds of the New Town." This street, enters by a
spacious elliptical archway from the Canongate, once the Court end of
the town, and main avenue from the Palace of Holyrood into the
city, and which contained, for several hundred years, all that has
become historically interesting in Scotland. St. John Street is so
named with reference to St. John's Cross, in the Canongate, where
Charles I., at his ceremonial entry into Edinburgh in 1633, knighted
the Provost, In the latter half of last century, and beginning of
the present, this street was occupied solely by persons of dis-
tinction — nobles, judges, and country gentlemen — now it is pos-
sessed as exclusively by persons of the middle rank. The
first door on the right is that which led to the apartments occu-
pied, in 1766, by Tobias Smollett, Author of Roderick Random.
No. I was the house of Sir Charles Preston, Bart., of Valleyfield,
renowned for his gallant defence of Fort St. John against the American
General Montgomery, when Major of the Cameronians. No. 3 was
occupied by Lord Blantyre. No. 5 by George, 8th Earl of Dalhousie,
Grand Master Mason, initiated in the Lodge in 1766. No. 8 was the
house of Andrew Carmichael, the last Earl of Hyndford. In No. 10
resided James Ballantyne, the faithful printing coadjutor and warm
admirer of the author of " Waverley." In No. 1 3 dwelt that eccentric
genius, James Burnet, Advocate — Lord Monboddo — who waa initiated
in the Lodge on 24th November 1757, and at whose house Burns was
frequently a visitor. Lord Monboddo's youngest daughter, celebrated
for her beauty, is described by the poet in his "Address to Edinburgh"
in glowing terms : —
" Fair Burtiet strikes th' adoring eye, '
Heav'n's beauties on my fancy shine J
I see the Sire of Love on high,
And own his work indeed divine."
The first building on the west side of the street is the Lodge, and
an adjoining one was the town residence of the Earl of Wemyss, who
was Grand Master in 1786-87. For several years after the dawn of
the present century. Sir David Rae (Lord Eskgrove), Dr. Gregory,
Sinclair of Barrock, and other distinguished men of that period had
their residences in St. John Street.
The Canongate Kilwinning Lodge is one as famous for her vicissi-
tudes of fortune as for the brilliant and celebrated men whom she
calls her sons. In neither of those characters has she a rival ; for,
while her lot has been to suffer greater misfortunes than any other
Lodge, her Roll of Members is one that no other kindred society can
equal. The greatest men of the past and present centuries have
belonged to her ; and while Burns, and Hogg the Ettrick Shepherd,
were her Laureates, St. Clair of Rosslyn, Sir William Forbes of
Pitsligo, Dr. James Boswell of Auchinleck, and Henry Erskine were
among her officers, and a Prince of the Russian Empire was brought
to light in her halls.
At the beginning of last century the Lodge numbered amongst its
members the foremost noblemen and gentlemen of Scotland who were
devoted to the Stuart cause. The unsuccessful rising in 171 5 sent
those who had escaped death on the battlefield into exile ; and during
the confusion attendant on those times, the whole early records of the
Lodge were lost or destroyed, and no trace of them can now be found.
At length the survivors,a small but trusty band, met about the beginning
of 173s and resumed the meetings.
28 Sri)e dHanongatt l^iltDtttning %ot>^t, fio. 2,
Bare at first, the walls of the Lodge-room have become covered
with portraits and rare and interesting masonic records and devices,
till now there is little space left. Mention in particular may be made
of the celebrated portrait of William St. Clair of Rosslyn, which still
looks down upon his successors. It is believed to have been painted
by Allan Ramsay, son of the Authot of T/ie Gentle Shepherd, and
bears the following inscription : —
"WILLAM ST. CLAIR of ROSLIN
H:G:M:M: OF SCOTLAND
INITD: IN Can: KiL: LODGE l8 MAY 1736."
' The earliest Minute in preservation is dated 13th February 1735,
and is as follows : —
A.D.
"Cannongate, Feby. ye 13th, 1735 : A:M: 5735.
"The Lodge having met according to adjournment do appoint
Rd, Bulkeley, Edwd. Miller, & Geo. Frazer to meet in order to
prepare regulations & by Laws to be laid before the Rt. Worshipful
the Master & Wardens against Thursday the 27 instant.
" To which time the Lodge stands adjourn'd.
THO's- TROTTER Master.
Ro- BULKELEY ) „ , „
ED°- MILLER J" f*"^''^"^'"-
From a list of the active Members who belonged to the Lodge at
this time, it appears that the number did not exceed ten, seven of
whom were Master Masons. It may here be stated that the early
Minutes are most carefully and beautifully written ; and it is also
worthy of notice that the Lodge was never closed, but adjourned to
the next fixed day of meeting. At this period the Monthly Meetings
were held on the first Thursday of every month, when the Members
absent from prior Meetings were bound to pay, not only their monthly
subscripljion of is., but an extra rs. of a fine for each regular Meeting
at which they were absent. The initiation fee was £\, 8s. 66.., and
extra fees were charged for passing and raising. On 27th, William
Montgomery, who subsequently was the first R.W.M. of Leith Kil-
Wlfitb pegree— /ittts— S;i)t |Sallot. 29
winning — from which branched off the present Lodge of St. David's,
No. 36 — was initiated, and on 20th March " Richard Cooper, MM.,
was appointed to act as Junior Warden to the Annual Feast of St.
John the Baptist, being the day of Election." The "Treasurer was
ordered to pay the Steward I2s. towards defraying ye expenses of
ye furniture of ye Lodge." " A Quarterly Communication " was held
on Lady Day, 2Sth March, when the Lodge "'adjourned till Monday
next for the MASTERS, and the whole Lodge till Thursday the 3d of
April being the Monthly Meeting." Here follows the earliest Minute
recorded in the Books of a Scottish Lodge of the admission of Master
Masons under the Modern Masonic Constitution.
"Cannongate 31st March 1735. Year of M. 5735.
" The Masters of the Lodge having mett according to adjournment
being duely form'd into a Lodge, admitted William Montgomery
Fellow Craft ; & William Robertson, Robert Blissct, and George
Frazer MASTER MASONS, and the said George Frazcr nominated b}-
the R.W. the Master to be S.W. in the room of Mr. Bulkeley who
desired to resign with the approbation of the Master & Lodge after
having served in that stsXlon for a considerable time to the entire satis-
faction of the R.W, the Master & the whole Members of the Lodge,
and adjourns in terms of the preceeding Minute."
The third degree is for the first time referred to in the Minutes of
Mother Kilwinning in 1736, and in those of Canongate Kilwinning
from Leith (now St. David's, Edinburgh), on 2nd March 1738, when
" the Right Worshipful Master, and the other Masters present, granted
the desire of the Petitioner, upon his answering such questions in the
Apprentice and Fellow Craft part as should be asked to convince
them he was qualified to be raised to tlie degree of Master Mason,
and he having answered the questions so put to him which satisfied
the Right Worshipful and the other Masters, he was accordingly
raised." . . .
The earliest record of this degree having been worked in the Lodge
of Edinburgh, Mary's Chapel, appears on ist November 1738, when
30 5r|)e danonjate l^tltotnntng ICobge, ^o. 2.
Lord Provost Drummond — who subsequently became R.W.M. of
Canongate Kilwinning — was passed and raised.
The bye-law regarding fines was strictly enforced, for an excuse,
offered by Geo. Frazer for Wm. Wescomb, absent on 3rd April, was
rejected, " in respect he was seen in town about three o'clock after-
noon," and he was accordingly fined, with some others. Wescomb
afterwards turned out a black sheep, and was expelled the Lodge. On
the nth of October, next year, after sundry meetings held in con-
sideration of his case, " the Lodge took under their cognizance the
scandalous behaviour of Wm. Wescomb, and was unanimously of
opinion that he never ought to be admitted into this Lodge, nor
admitted into the conversation or company of any of the Members of
the Lodge, which is hereby recommended to the particulars thereof
to observe, and further, gave orders to the Servants of the Lodge
that, if ever he should attempt to enter the Lodge, they should treat
him as more unworthy than a Cowan." The fines -were laid out in
refreshments for the evening, and such an order constantly occurs in
the .Minutes. Were such a bye-law passed now-a-days, the Lodge
would, doubtless, be substantially benefited by it^ The quarterly
accounts were systematically prepared by the Treasurer, for the
purpose of audit by a Committee, preparatory to laying them before
the Lodge on St. John the Baptist's Day. On this date the Annual
Election was appointed to be held, and all the officers expected to be
in their proper places. The Steward was instructed to prepare clothing
"at each Member's expense." The unpaid fines of absentees from
former meetings to be made good " out of the public stock, in order
to reimburse the Treasurer, . . . the absenting Members to forfeit
a Crown," and all arrears and forfeitures to be paid up, "or else
such Members so in arrear not to be allowed to vote or ballots
The system of election of Office-bearers and admission of Members
by ballot, was at this early period the rule in Canongate Kilwinning,
and only at the initiation of Wm. St. Clair was it dispensed with. It is
recorded that " the Lodge, after balloting, agreed that William Tibets
be admitted against next meeting, and, in cAse of absence, Mr, Smart,
Sl)e IttjSttttttion of tlje dranJl IDoiije of ^totUnb. 31
who proposed him, to answer in terms of the bye-laws." These two
brethren afterwards played an important part at the institution of the
Leith Kilwinning Lodge.
A quarterly meeting took place on 29th September, and, as the
Minute furnishes the earliest information of the election of a Grand
Master for Scotland, it is here transcribed in full : —
" Cannongate, the 29th Septemr. 1735. 5735-
"The Lodge having mett according to adjournment being duely
form'd, this being a quarterly meeting, continued the Committee for
the Laws, admitted William Montgomery, Master Mason, who pay'd
as usual, and appointed David Home, William Robertson, Thomas
Trotter, Robert Blissett, William Montgomery, George Crawford, &
such other Members as think fitt to attend, as a Committee for framing
proposals to be lay'd before the several Lodges in order to the chusing
a Grand Master for Scotland, the Committee to meet to-morrow's
night at 6 o' th' clock, & to report against Wednesdaj', to which
time the Lodge stands adjourned."
Accordingly, the Lodge met on isth October, "in the house of
Brother Cooper, and, being duly consecrated, the Committee on the
bye-laws is continued, and to report against next meeting, and that
they also take under consideration the proposals for a Grand Master.''
The latter subject was thoroughly considered and discussed by this
Committee in course of the next few months, and the Members,
meanwhile, having placed themselves in communication with William
St. Clair of Rosslyn, the next important step in this matter was his
initiation, as recorded in the following Minute, dated i8th Way
1736:—
"The Lodge, having occasionally met, admitted WILLIAM St.
Clair of Rosline, Esqr., a Brother of the Antient & Honb'"=-
Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, he paying into the Box as
usuall, William Montgomery being appointed J. Warden pro tempore,
and Richard Cooper S. Warden."
32 ^|)e (fTanonigate l^ilTDtnntng |^ot)ge, ^o. 2.
No ballot was taken for St. Clair, although imperative and done in
every preceding case ; but, when he applies for admission to the F.C.
degree on 2nd June, it is recorded that —
" William St. Clair of Rosline, Esq., was votediox and admitted
a Member of this Lodge. Thereafter Brother John Brown (Bailie) and
William St. Clair, Esq., were advanced to the degree of Fellow Craft,
they paying into the Box as usuall." . . .
Various meetings of the Committee were then held, and, at the
monthly meeting of the Lodge on the 4th of August, " at the desire of
Brother Murray (of Kynnynmound) he was appointed Secretary, for
the time, with power to appoint his own Deputy, in order to his
making out a scheme for bringing about a Grand Master in Scotland."
A "'quarterly communication" was held on 29th September, when
" the Lodge was visited by Brothers John Young, John Dougall, and
John Robertson, from the Lodge kept at William Gray's, Edinburgh "
(Kilwinning Scots Arms, now dormant), " who made some proposals
anent a Grand Master for Scotland, which are to be laid before the
Lodge's first monthly meeting." . . .
After consulting the brethren of three of the other Lodges" in and
about Edinburgh," a special meeting was held on i ith October, and
the Minute says : "The Lodge, having mett in order to' the concerting
proper measures for elepting a Grand Master for Scotland, being duly
form'dr heard proposals for that purpose, which were agreed to, and
gave it as an instruction to their representatives at the first meeting'
(on isth inst.) of the four Lodges in and about Edinburgh, in the first
place to insist that a proper Secretary should be appointed to the
meetings of said Lodges, who should be invested with the powers
mentioned in said proposals, or such as should be then agreed on,
which Secretary was then named," . . . and, on the 15th October,
delegates from the four Lodges — Mary's Chapel, Canongate Kilwin-
ning, Kilwinning Scots Arms, and Leith Kilwinning — met upon the
business for which they were appointed. The following is a portion
of the Minutes of their proceedings : —
®I)e InsJtitttttoit of Slje ffiranD %o1i^t of <^totlanli. 33
" The which day the Masters and Wardens of the said four Lodges
having met, they unanimously condescended and agreed upon the
Methods underwritten for electing of a Grand Master for Scotland,
and upon certain Regulations to be observed thereanent for the good
and prosperity of Masonrie in general, in the terms following : —
" I. That the Masters and Wardens of the four Lodges in and about
Edinburgh do meet in some convenient place, and that there be no
precedency insisted upon by either of them, but that they take place
according as they enter the room.
" 2. That the Clerk of Mary's Chapel shall act as Clerk to their
meetings, who is to write out the following proposals, or such as shall
be agreed upon.
" 3. That upon the above Lodges' agreement to the proposals,
circular letters be wrote in name of the whole four Lodges and signed
by the Masters of the particular Lodges by turns, to be sent to the
respective Lodges in Scotland, with a copy of the proposals enclosed,
in order to have their approbation.
"4. That the above four Lodges upon the day of election of Grand
Master be represented by their respective Masters and Wardens and
such Masters and Wardens of the other Lodges, either by themselves or
by proxies to Master Masons.
" s. That Mary's Chapel be the place of election of a Grand Master,
where such Master is to name his Deputy and Wardens of the Grand
Lodge, and the Clerk of Mary's Chapel to be Clerk to the first
election."
They also framed Regulations which were to be adopted for the
Grand Lodge that was about to be formed. In connection with the
four Lodges above mentioned, the following is a copy of an account
which is still in possession of the Lodge : —
5
. £o o
3
!, o 4
6
5, O 14
6
2 17
2i
I
8
;^3 18
i|
34 ^\)t (S^anongate ^tltDtnntng flolige, ^0. 2.
An Account of Incidents laid out by George Frazer at the Meetings
of the four Lodges,
1736.
October. To Coffee at the ist Meeting in
Exchange Coffee-house,
At the Meeting in Annandale's,
The same day at John Slease's,
At 5 different Meetings at Do.
and Coffee-house,
Cadies, ....
At Gray's with Mr. Alison,
On 3rd November "the Lodge took into their consideration the
Method proposed for bringing about a Grand Master, and were
unanimously of opinion that Brother William Sinclair of Rosline
was the most worthy person, and recommended to the Brotherhood
his interest in a very earnest manner, and likewise were of opinion
that, in case Brother Sinclair should not succeed in his election
of Grand Master, that the following persons (all members of
Canongate Kilwinning) were proper ofificers to be named for the
Grand Lodge, and hereby recommend their interest to the several
brethren, vizt. :— Mr. Hew Murray, S.W.; Dr. John Douglas, J.W.;
Thomas Trotter, Treasurer ; David Maul, W.S., Secretary., Thereafter
appointed the Right Worshipfull and Wardens with the a' named
brethren and Bro. Blisset, Bro. Home, Bro. M'Farlane, Bro. (Dean of
Guild) Allan, Bro. (Sir Wm.) Nicolson, Bro. Bull, and Bro. Cooper to
meet upon the iSth inst. in the house of Bro. Moore in order to their
concerting any further matters anent said election of a Grand Master."
On this date it was arranged, amongst other matters, to hold a special
meeting of the Lodge in course of the following week ; and accordingly
we find that, on 22nd November, the meeting proceeded ." to enter
David Laing, servant to our Brother Rosline, a Mason, but not a
Member of the Lodge, and raised Wm. St. Clair, our brother, to the
Sri)t £n<ittttttton of «t\}t (gcand |:,o!i9e of ^totlanti. 3^
degree of Master Mason. Thereafter, in absence of the Junior
Warden, Brother Sinclair was appointed Jn. Warden, and, in absence
of the Rt. W., Brother Crawford took the chair, who appointed our
Brother Sinclair S.W., and Bro. Alex. Hunter J.W. Thereafter, the
Rt. Worshipful, George Crawford, being to go away, the S.W., Brother
Sinclair, took the chair, who appointed Bro. John Ross Senior Warden,
and, after several healths suitable to the occasion, dismissed the
Lodge."
It is an interesting fact to observe that immediately St. Clair
received the third degree his mother Lodge elevated him to the
highest position in her power, and he accordingly signs the Minute
of this meeting, together with the acting Wardens.
Another meeting was held on the 29th, when a Committee was
appointed to make out "a Return to the R.W. of Kilwinning's Letter."
This letter contained " observations on the proposals for electing the
Grand Master and regulating the Grand Lodge " ; also a proxy to
George Frazer to represent Mother Kilwinning. The suggestions it
contained, however, were negatived at the first Grand Lodge quarterly
communication.
It was resolved by the four Lodges, on 15th October, to send a copy
of the following letter to all the Lodges throughout Scotland : —
't>
" Brethren, — The four Lodges in and about Edinburgh having
taken to their serious consideration, the great loss that Masonry has
sustained through the want of a Grand Master, authorized us to
signify to you, our good and worthy brethren, our hearty desire and
firm intention to chuse a Grand Master for Scotland ; and, in order
the same may be done with the greatest harmony, we hereby invite
you (as we have done all the other regular lodges known by us) to
concur in such a great and good work, whereby it's hoped Masonry
$6 ®l)e fflanongate ^iliBirtntng 3^obge, ^o. 2.
may be restored to its antient lustre in this kingdome ; and for effec-
tuating this laudable designe, we humbly desire, that betwixt and
Martinmass day next, you will be pleased to give us a brotherly
answer in relation to the election of a Grand Master; which we pro-
pose to be on St. Andrew's day for the first time, and ever thereafter
to be on St. John the Baptist's day,* or as the Grand Lodge shall
appoint by the majority of voices, which are to be collected from the
Masters and Wardens of all the regular Lodges then present, or by
proxy to any Master-mason or Fellow-craft in any Lodge in Scotland ;
and the election is to be in St. Mary's Chappell. All that is hereby
proposed is for the advancement and prosperity of Masonrie, in its
greatest and most charitable perfection. We hope and expect a
suitable return ; wherein if any Lodges are defective, they have them-
selves only to blame. We heartily wish you all manner of success
and prosperity, and we are, with great respect, your affectionate and
loving brethren, &c."
When the Lodge was duly met, on the 30th November, and the
Rolls called over, there was produced the following resignation of
the office of Grand Master by William St. Clair of Rosslyn, Esq., in
favour of the brethren, or whomsoever they should be pleased to elect
to that high office.
" I, William St. Clair of Rossline, Esq., taking into my considera-
tion that the Massons of Scotland did, by several deeds, constitute and
appoint William and Sir William St. Clairs of Rosline, my ancestors,
and their heirs to be their patrons, protectors, judges, or masters ; and
that my holding or claiming any such jurisdiction, right, or privilege
might be prejudicial to the craft and vocation of Massonrie, whereof I
am a member, and I, being desirous to advance and promote the good
* A Resolution adopted by Grand Lodge, on 13th April 17.37, changed this
date to St. Andrew's Day.
®l)e Insttttttton of E\)t €ranb Idolise of ^cotUnb. 37
and utility of the said craft of Massonrie to the utmost of my power, do
therefore hereby, for me and my heirs, renounce, quit, claim, overgive,
and discharge all right, claim, or pretence that I, or my heirs, had,
have, or any ways may have, pretend to, or claim to be patron, pro-
tector, judge, or Master of the Massons in Scotland, in virtue of any
deed or deeds made and granted by the said Massons, or of any
grant or charter made by any of the Kings of Scotland, to and in
favours of the said William and Sir William St. Clairs of Rossline,
or any others of my predecessors ; or any other manner of way
whatsomever, for now and ever : And I bind and oblige me and my
heirs, to warrand this present renunciation and discharge at all
hands ; and I consent to the registration hereof in the books of
Councill and Session, or any other judge's books competent, therein
to remain for preservation ; and thereto I constitute
my Procurators, &c. In witness whereof I have subscribed these
presents (written by David Maul, Writer to the Signet) at Edinburgh,
the Twenty-fourth day of November, One Thousand Sc\ en Hundred
and Thirty-six years, before these witnesses, George Frazer, Deputy
Auditor of the Excise in Scotland, Master of the Canongatc Lodge,
and William Montgomery, Merchant in Leith, Master of the Leith
Lodge
Sic Subscribitur
'/
" Geo: Frazer, Canongate Kilwinning, witness.
" W - Montgomery, Leith Kilwinning, witness.''
Which being read was ordered to be recorded in the books to be
hereafter kept in the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
" After this the brethren proceeded to the election of a Grand Master ;
38 S^e Ctanongate ^iltoinnmg IDobje, ^o. 2.
and, in consideration of his noble and ancient family, for the zeal he
himself had now shown for the good and prosperity of the craft, they
thought they could not confer that high honour upon any brother
better qualified or more properly entitled than William St. Clair of
Rosslyn, Esq., \yhose ancestors had so long presided over the brethren,
and had ever acquitted themselves with honour and dignity. Ac-
cordingly, by an unanimous voice, William St. Clair of Rosslyn, Esq.,
was proclaimed Grand Master Mason of all Scotland, and being
placed in the chair, was installed, saluted, homaged, and acknowledged
as such."
The foregoing facts unquestionably prove that the Lodge Canon-
gate Kilwinning took the initiative in the erection of a Grand Lodge
for Scotland, and whilst Dr. Douglas held the joint offices of
R.W. Master, and Substitute Grand Master, for several years,
Lord Aberdour, who w?is initiated in the Lodge on 14th November
1755, was the first Grand Master who was honoured with re-election
to that office in 1756.* Previous to the latter year re-elections to the
Grand Mastership took place annually.
On Sth October 1737, "the R.W. acquainted the Lodge that the
Grand Master had named the Earl of Home for his successor, and
had wrote to him to know whether he inclined to accept or not, but
as yet he had not received the Earl's answer, but would acquaint the
Brethren so soon as it came to hand." . . .
Further information regarding St. Clair's successor does not appeair
to have been made by him to the Lodge as indicated in the above
Minute; but from the following extract from a letter dated Edin-
burgh, 1 6th November 1736, it will be seen that the Earl of Home
was a candidate for the Grand Mastership when St. Clair was
unanimously elected : —
. . . " It is also the opinion of the Brethren that to te perfectly
unanimous in the choice of a G.M. will be altogether agreeable to
that concord and harmony which wee cherish amongst us, and is the
* In 1757 Lord Aberdour was Grand Master Mason of England.
^t, dlatr'si ^ttftes^or sa (Sranb Ittaster. 39
happy cement of our brotherly affections. I must also acquaint you
that many of the Lodges have named my Lord Home (a bro. verry
well qualified) to be G.M., particularly Mary's Chapel, Glasgow,
Hamilton, Falkirk, Dunfermling, and a great many more, so that it
is without doubt my Lord Home will be elected, Thereafter your
proxy will be the only one for Ld. Crawford. I acquaint you with
this only to exoner myself that you may know the opinions and
designs of the other Lodges, because probably you will think it
convenient to join unanimously with the rest, and I believe, if I might
humbly offer an advice, it will be best. I thought it was not proper
to deliver your letter to the Four Masters till I had acquainted you
with what I have writ. But upon your answers (by the post) I shall
exactly obey all your commands, either by a new proxy or by this
I have received as you shall be pleased to direct me.
" V.B. — As the elections comes off on Tuesday, the 30th instant,
and that by course of the post cannot have your answer, and in
consequence your proxy will be lost, Wee entreat of you to renew
it in favours of Lord Home, present Mr. of the Lodge of Kilwinning,
at the Scots' Arms in Ed., and contrive to send it up as it may be
here on Monday ye 29th, either by an express to the first post town
or by some trusty private hand, for wee are aprehensive of some
competition which we want to frustrate by all means possible. . . .
"(S''-) JAMES DEANS,
" Proxy for Inverness L.
" To Mr. Lauchlan Mackintosh,
" Mercht. in Inverness."
The Earl of Cromarty, however, was elected Grand Master on 30th
November 1737.
It is a notable circumstance, and the fact is recorded in a memor-
andum at the end of the first volume of Minutes in 1760, that down
to that date there is no mention made of St. Clair's hereditary dignity.
In the Minute of a Grand Lodge visitation on loth January 1799,
which was headed by Sir James Stirling, Bart., Lord Provost of
40 Slje elattoitgate ^UtDtttning ILolije, fio, 2.
Edinburgh, the subject is thus referred to : — " It is worthy of remark
that an object presents itself to our view in this Lodge nowhere to be
found in any other: — a whole-length portrait of Williani St. Clair,
Esq., of Rosslyn, the last of the line of Hereditary Grand Master
Masons of Scotland — a family which, from the nth to the 17th
century, enjoyed by uninterrupted succession that high, dignified, and
honourable office. The personage mentioned stepped forW-ard as the
last male heir of that ancient family, and with a generous and truly
masonic spirit surrendered his hereditary right into the hands of the
Brethren at large, so that from the year 1736 down to the
present period the Lodges of Scotland have had the free and
uncontrolled privilege of electing their own Grand Masters, a
privilege highly to be valued, and which it is to be hoped they will
never abuse." . . .
The following is a transcript of the copy of the original Deed of
Election in possession of the Lodge, which was presented to it by
Brother Aytoun, Professor of Belles Lettres in the University of
Edinburgh, whp was R.W. Master in 1839. He also presented to
Grand Lodge the valuable documents known in Masonic history as
the St. Clair Charters.
" Ht ffiliinbttrfll),
" su Pag of ^ooembcr mtitcmrii.
"WHICH DAY the Honourable and Worshipfull MASTER' and
Wardens of the several Lodges aftermentioned, viz., Mary's Chappell
m Edinburgh, KILWINNING, Cannongate Kilwinning, Kilwinning
Scot's arms, Leith Kilwinning, Glasgow, Coupar of Fife, Linlithgow,
Dumfermling, Dundee, Dalkeith, Atcheson's haven, Selkirk, Inverness,
Lessmahaggow, St. Bride's Douglas, Lanark, Strathaven, Hamilton,
Dunse, Kircaldie, Journeymen Masons of Edinburgh, Kirkintilloch-Kil-
winning, Biggar, Sanquhar, Peebles, Glasgow St. Mungo's, Greenock,
Falkirk, Aberdeen, Mariaburgh, Cannongate & Leith, and Leith & Can-
nongate, and Montrose, Being all met and convened in Mary's Chappell
in pursuance of the resolutions and regulations Transmitted to them
@nginal Peeb of CFlection. 4t
by the four Mason Lodges in and about Edinburgh, In order to
the Election of a GRAND MASTER, Grand Wardens, Treasurer,
Secretary, and other office-bearers over the above and all other regular
Mason Lodges in that part of Great Britain called SCOTLAND : In
terms of and conform to the said proposals and regulations and
Circular Letters sent therewith, all which are appointed to be recorded
in the Books to be kept for the use of the said Grand Lodge. After
calling over the names of the honourable and WorshipfuU Master and
Wardens of the several Lodges above mentioned then present, and dis-
cussing and settling certain preliminaries previous to the said Grand
Election In manner mentioned in the Minutes thereanent, THEY
proceeded to the Election, when, by an unanimous vote of the whole
honourable and WorshipfuU Masters present, WILLIAM ST.
CLAIR, of Rossline, Esquire, was elected and chosen GRAND MASTER,
and afterwards was saluted by the whole meeting and Invested and
Dignified with the cloathing, &c., suitable to that Grand Office, where
upon he took Instruments in the clerk's hands upon his said election.
THEREAFTER the Most WorshipfuU the Grand Master made choice of
Captain John Young, Esquire, to be Deputy Grand Master, The
Honble. Sir William Baillie, of Lamington, Senior Grand War-
den, and The Honble. Sir Alexander Hope, of Kerse, Junior
Grand Warden, which election was also unanimously approven of,
and these Honourable Persons were saluted and Dignified with the
proper cloathing accordingly : Thereafter the said Most WorshipfuU
the Grand Master made choice likewise of John Moncrief, Esq.,
Doctor of Medicine, to be Treasurer, John M'Donald, Esq., to be
Secretary, Eglisfield Griffith, Esq., Andrew Syme, Peter Campbell,
and John MacMillan to be Grand Stewards ; and continued Robert
Alison, Writer in Edinburgh, Clerk to the said Grand Lodge, which
election was also unanimously approven of by the Honourable and
WorshipfuU Brethren present, and the said Persons saluted and
vested in the Grand Offices accordingly : and thereafter the Most
WorshipfuU the Grand Master appointed their next meeting for the
first quarterly Communication to be at Mary's Chappell in Edinburgh
6
upon Wednesday the twelfth day of January next to come, at three of
the clock afternoon, when the whole Masters and Wardens present
were appointed to acquaint, their respective Lodges to attend that
diet by themselves or their representatives. Extracted furth of the
reqords of the said Grand Lodge by the said Robert
Alison, Clerk thereto, and to the foresaid. Election.
"(Signed) R"- ALISON,
« Grand Clerk."
As mention has several times been made of " the four Lodges in
and about Edinburgh," it should be explained that, at this period, six
Lodges existed in the District. The Lodges Canongate and Leith
and Leith and Canongate, and Journeymen, were ignored in the
negotiations respecting the institution of Grand Lodge, presumably
for the reason that they both seceded from Mary's Chapel — the former
in 1688, and the latter in 1709.
CHAPTER III.
REVERTING to the records of the Lodge in 1735, it is
recorded that on the sth November the report on the
bye-laws was given in and agreed to, and at next
meeting the Lodge was presented by Brother John Campbell with
a "Breeches"* Bible, also "two Tables very useful in Masonry."
The Bible is still in use in the Lodge, but the " Tables " have gone no
one knows where.
On 3rd December, after the Lodge was closed, " they met with a
dispute in the company anent John Scott, Plumber in Edinburgh,"
who affirmed that he was a Master Mason, and, on being challenged,
it was "earnestly recommended," by several visiting brethren, that
"Mr. Scott should make good his assertion." Accordingly, all the
visiting brethren, having submitted " to take tryall of their qualifica-
tions as Master Masons," sufficiently acquitted themselves, but " Mr.
Scott, notwithstanding his said alledgance of his being a Master
Mason, refused to undergo a tryall in the same manner the other
* This version is thus referred to in The National Encyclopcsdia .• . . .
" Sometimes called the Geneva Bible, a translation of the Bible into English,
which was executed at Geneva by several English ministers who had been
compelled to flee from the persecutions instituted by Queen Mary. It was
the first edition printed in Roman letter, and the first in which the divisions
into verses were marked. Issued in 1557, and provided with explanatory
notes of a Calvinistic character, this edition enjoyed considerable favour
with the Puritans until it was supplanted by the Authorised Version of 161 1.
The term ' Breeches Bible ' is given from the rendering of Gen. iii. 7, ' Then
the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked, and they
sewed fig-leaves together, and made themselves breeches.' "
44 ^i)t €^a:nongate ^tlwtnntng |Dodge, ^o. 2.
gentlemen visitors did. The Right Worshipful!, having dismissed the
Fellow Crafts and Prentices, did interrogate said Mr. Scott, but found
him neither Master Mason nor Fellow Craft, and therefore the Lodge
was of opinion he had imposed upon them, so far as to misrepresent
his degree for Masonry, and thinks he is a very weak entered Prentice,
and this all he can pretend to." . . .
At the Festival of St. John the Evangelist, the Lodge, having
" dined, proceeded to the drinking the healths usuall upon such solemn
festivalls, amongst which the Mother Lodge of Kilwinning was in
particular drunk, with all the honour the Lodge could do it, as also
Patrick Montgomerie, the present Rt. Worshipfull thereof, with all
honours. Next the Lodge of Mary's Chappell, with the usual cere-
monies, and afterwards the Assembly of Masons, who generally meet
at Gray's, opposite to the Cross, Edinburgh, to whom the just honours
due them were done." . . .
The Lodge met, i8th January, "at the desire of the Right Wor-
shipfull Master," and " advanced William Tibbets to the degree of a
Master Mason, upon account of his services done to the R. W. Master,
as well as for his personal! merit and knowledge in Geometry and
Architecture," he having paid his dues as usual.
Early in this year a communication was addressed to the Mothfer
Lodge, of which the following is a copy, requesting a confirmation of
the Charter granted in December 1677.
" Cannongate (Kilwinning) Lodge, Edinburgh.
" Right Worshipful Master and Worthy Brethren of the Ancient
Lodge of arid at Kilwinning.
" We, the Master and Brethren of the Lodge of the, Cannongate of
Edinburgh, the oldest daughter of your ancient Lodge, do humbly
represent to you that the Lodge of the Cannongate, authorised by your
ancient Lodge by an Act of your Mason Court, dated 20th of Decem-
ber 1677, to meet together in a lawful Lodge, and to enter and pass
any qualified persons as free and accepted Masons in the name and
behalf and as part of youi' ancient Lodge of Kilwinning, and to receive
CTonfimtdtton of <!^I)artec gcanteb in 1677. 45
the entry-moneys due from such qualified persons as should be passed
by the said Lodge of the Cannongate, and our predecessors in the said
Lodge, and bind themselves and us, their successors, to maintain and
defend the rights and privileges of Kilwinning Lodge, and never to do
anything prejudicial thereto.
" Now, we having faithfully observed our part by maintaining as
far as in us lay the Rights of your ancient Lodge, and being desirous
to renew from time to time our engagement to and with your ancient
Lodge, which is our Mother Lodge, we send these presents requesting
that we may be acknowledged, as we truly are, the eldest daughter of
Kilwinning Lodge, promising anew on our part for our Mother Lodge.
We, the Master and Wardens of your daughter Lodge of the Cannon-
gate, have subscribed this by order of our Lodge, and are,
" Right Worshipful Master and Right Worthy Brethren,
" Your most affectionate Brethren,
" GEORGE FRAZER, Master.
DAVID HOME, 5. W.
RICHARD COOPER, Z?./.fF.
Cannongate |^ot)ge,
H3)t|) /tbmars mtitciiJEOj
39ear of |tt., Tj.utjJEHDj
"P.S. — On our promising continuance in our duty to you, our
Mother Lodge, we hope you'll be so good as confirm your grant to
us by signing and transmitting a ratification thereof.
" G. F., D.M.
D. H., S. W.
R.c.,/.w:'
This letter was neatly written upon a sheet of gilt-edged foolscap
paper, and addressed to " Patrick Montgomery, Esq. of Bourtreehill,
To the Care of the Post Master of Glasgowr At the present day it
appears singular, that letters addressed from Edinburgh to Kilwinning
46 Sri)e Canongate ^tltDtnntng f^obge, ^o. 2.
or its vicinity, should be forwarded to the care of the above official,
who resided at a distance of about thirty miles from their destination,
yet such were the postal arrangements in those days. The Petition
received the most favourable consideration of a committee of the
Mother Lodge, to whom it was remitted to be reported on, and the
following extracts from their records show how the matter was
disposed of : —
" Kilwinning, 9th March 1736,
" The Master presented to the Meeting the Compliment of a Set of
Songs from the Cannongate Lodge, together with a Letter desiring a
Confirmation of the former Charter."
The " Set of Songs " referred to was entitled " The Free Masons
Pocket Companion," and was exhibited to a deputation from Canon-
gate Kilwinning who visited the Mother Lodge on the occasion of
their Anniversary Meeting, on 20th December 1883 — nearly 150 years
after the presentation took place. This Meeting, which was attended
by a numerous and brilliant assemblage of brethren from most of the
Lodges in Ayrshire, was presided over by Brother R. W. Cochran-
Patrick, M.P., M.W.P.G, Master of that province. The volume bears
the following inscription — part of which is beautifully penned in Old
English characters : —
" Gannoflgate Vllth January 1736.
Year of Masonry 5736.
" This day being the Monthly Meeting of ye Cannongate Kilwin-
ning, held at William Clark's there. They thought it their duty to
Transmit by the hands of Patrick Montgomery, Esq., the present Right
Worshipful Master of our Mother Lodge Kilwinning kept at Kilwin-
ning, This book for the use of our said Mother Lodge,
^ . , , ^ ,, r GEORGE FRAZER, Master.
Is humbly presented by J ^^^^^ ^ ^^
Cannongate Kilwrnmng Lodge. \ ri^HD. COOPER,/.^."
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i-^( ^'4-1 ^k^-'-^^d
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y^etji^c^)^
G
'^^^
^risttt o( %nt]) ^tlmtnntng $obge anb (i^btnbatgt) ^t. ^aotb'iS. 47
" Kilwinning, 24th June 1736.
" The Master presented to the Meeting the Charter appointed to be
drawn at the Meeting in March last, in favour of the Kilwinning Can-
nongate Lodge, which, after reading was approven and signed by the
R. Worshipful and the other Members present, and it was appointed
to hand the said Charter about to them that are absent, that they may
sign the same. The Scroll of it was to be put in the Box, together
with ■ the Letter desiring the Charter. The Meeting desired the
Secretary to the Lodge to pay the expense of drawing the Charter,
and bring in an account of it to the next Meeting."
This document is still in good preservation.
A committee was appointed on 3rd March to " commune with the
Deacons and Incorporation of the Shoemakers of Cannongate," with
reference to the property, and to report. At the meeting, on this date,
a letter was read from Mother Kilwinning, proposing that the Mem-
bers of either Lodge should be Members of the other, and a reply was
directed to be sent thereto. The above-mentioned Committee reported
on 27th inst., when the Lodge would not agree " to take the Tack
unless on more reasonable terms," but re-appointed the Committee,
and meantime requested "Mr. Douglas to wait upon Bailie Jack,"
with reference to the property upon which the Lodge now stands, and
to report. The records bear that, at this period, frequent meetings
were held for the purpose of entering, passing, and raising.
On 24th June, John Oswald was elected Steward, and the office-
bearers and "servants" were continued eis formerly. Several new
Members were admitted, and the Minute proceeds : —
. . . " Upon the application of Brother William Montgomerie,
Archd. Smart, and William Tibbets, that upon their separating from
this Lodge they be formed into a new Lodge at Leith. That, upon
the foresaid application, the present Right Worshipfull & other
Members of this Lodge went this day down to Leith, & there con-
secrate & ordained a new Lodge to be there held, conform to an
ordination which is Signed upon their foresaid application, & that
the aforesaid William Montgomerie was recommended as Master, &
thereupon nominate, by the said Right Worshipfull of this Lodge,
whereupon he, the said William Montgomerie, named the a'said
William Tibbets his Senior Warden, & Archibald Smart, Junior,
who are approved of by this their Mother Lodge."
This is the origin of the Leith Kilwinning Lodge, from which
branched off St. David's, No. 36 on the Roll of the Grand Lodge of
Scotland. The latter was at first styled the " Canongate Kilwinning
from Leith," and the name was altered to St. David's, by deliverance of
Grand Lodge, dated 2nd August 1756. The records are of a highly
interesting character, neatly written and carefully preserved in several
volumes. On its roll appear the names of many illustrious men,
including that of Sir Walter Scott, Bart.; and from the beginning it
has maintained the closest connection with Canongate Kilwinning.
There are many instances on record of joint meetings of a congratula-
tory and convivial nature having taken place between them.
Qn 7th July, Andrew Hay of Mugdrum and James Haliburton of
Pitcurr were admitted, and on 4th August the first affiliation recorded
in the Minutes took place. It is stated that Dr. John Douglas,
"upon his application to be a Member of this Lodge, representing
that he was admitted a Member of Kirkaldy Lodge, but could
not attend the same ; therefore the Lodge, for services done and
to be done, thought him worthy to be a Member of the Lodge,
& accordingly admitted such." On 6th October, Sir William Baillie
of Lamington was entered Apprentice, when visitors were present from
" Leith, the Lodge at Paris, and the Lodge at Gateside, in Bishopprick
of Durham.'' ;^i6 was taken out of the Box to defray outstanding
accounts. Sir William Nicolson was initiated on 3rd November, and,
at the Monthly Meeting on 2nd December, Grand Master St. Clair
presided and introduced a candidate to his Mother Lodge, upon whom
he conferred the first degree.
" The Lodge, being mett and duly form'd, was visited by the Most
Worshipfull Wm. Sinclair of Rossline, Esq., Grand Master of Scotland,
dottjfwratidtt of ^t. goljn'si fflljapel, ^t. |ol)n ^trtet. 49
who, having taken the chair, appointed Brother John Douglas Senior
Warden, & Bror. Thomas Allen Junr. Warden. Then he proceeded to
admit Sir John Scott of Ancrum a Mason, who paid into the Box as
usuall, together with 2^^- 6^ for the use of the Grand Lodge, and,
after drinking the healths proper to such an Honourable visite, and
others, the Grand Master ordered the S. W. to dismiss the Lodge.
WM. ST. CLAIR, G. Master."
The Members had meanwhile built themselves a Lodge Room of
their own, as they could not come to terms with the Incorporation of
Shoemakers, and St. Clair again takes the field.
" dannonjate, iS'."; Dec^ 1736. a:m:5736.
" THE LODGE having been Summonded to attend the Grand-
master at the Consecration of the new Lodge, built by the Subscribers,
members of this Lodge, at the House of James Hamilton, Vint'., in
Cannongate, being mett accordingly, made a procession in due order
from his House to the New Lodge, where the Most Worshipfull
appointed the Right Worshipfull George Frazer to Consecrate the
Lodge, which being done in most due and solemn form, The Several
brethren were admitted, viz.'. Alex. Hay of Drummelzier, John Hay
of Belton, Mr. George Loch, Maxwell, Archibald Hart, and
Francisio Mario Barsanti, Masons of the Lodge, the five first-men-
tioned paying into the Treas":. the Fees as usuall over and above the
2^1' 61 for the use of the Grand Lodge. Thereafter the Healths proper
to the occasion were Drunk. The Lodge was visited by the Deputy
Grand-master, by tlie Jun^ Grand Warden, by the Right Worshipfull
W?} Montgomerie, Esql! with the most part of his Leith Kilwinning
Lodge, and by severall other worthy Brethren, Broy^. George Craw-
furd having been appointed Jun"!. Grand Warden pro tempore."
'1f'^0/mfM:
ItJmii/t
The following Minute, dated the 23rd, contains information regard-
ing the manner of defraying the expense of Masonic Festivals at this
period : —
. . . " The Right Worshipful ordered a Letter from the Deputy
Grand Master to be read, whereof the contents were that he desired
any Brethren representing Lodges should pay up their Shares of the
expense upon St. Andrew's Day last, which the Brethren then present
paid. Thereafter the Most Worshipful visited the Lodge and con-
tinued the foresaid Wardens as Grand Wardens. Likewise the Lodge
took into their consideration the expense of St. John's Day nexf, and
appointed every Brother, whether present or absent, to answer to the
Steward for S^*"- 6^-, as the expense of Gloves and Aprons for the
Day, etc., and ... the Most Worshipfull ordered the proper
Warden to dismiss the Lodge.
WM. ST. CLAIR, GM.
GEO. FRAZER, Master."
The next Minute is the first which is dated " St. John's Chapel,"
and it records the presence of many distinguished Brethren, amongst
them John, third Earl of Kintore, who was Grand Master Mason of
Scotland in 1738, and of England in 1740, a combination which
afterwards took place in the person of Lord Aberdour, who was' Grand
Master of Scotland in 1755-6, and of England in 1757.
A.M.
"Cannongate, St. John's Chappie, 27th Dec. 1736. 5736.
" The Lodge, having mett upon the Anniversary of St. John the
Evangelist, being duly formed by the Most Worshipfull Grand Master
Wm. St. Clair of Rosline, Esq., he appointed the Right Honble. Bror.
the Earl of Kintore and Robfert Blisset of this Lodge Grand Wardens,
pro tempore, Thereafter admitted (three gentlemen). The Lodge was
visited by three Members from the Kilwinning Lodge kept at Scots
Arms, Edinr., by three from the Leith Kilwinning Lodge, and three
Members from the Lodge of Mary's Chappie, and two Members from
the Lodge of Leith and Cannongate and Cannongate and Leith, all
Itorb Pmihttiore— Ittnetttarg of ^ttuels— &f. s»
which visits were returned in due form by deputations from this Lodge.
Were likewise visited by Sir James Carnegie, from the Lodge of
Montrose, and Geo, Scott, from the Lodge of Dumferling, and, after
the severall healths were drunk suitable to the Grand and Anniversary
occasion, the Grand Master ordered the Lodge to be dismissed.
WM. ST. CLAIR, GM.
KlliTOKE,G./.W:'
On 3rd January, " The Right Hon the Lord Drummore," one of
the Lords of Session, was admitted. An interesting reference to Lord
Drummore will be found in a subsequent chapter. The Lodge was
presided over by the Grand Master on this occasion, and was visited,
amongst others, by the " Earl of Kintore, Master of the Lodge of
Aberdeen." The Grand Master also presided at the next meeting on
the sth inst., when he proceeded to pass and raise several Brethren.
Many distinguished names are recorded, and the Minute is signed by
St. Clair and the Earl of Kintore. An inventory of the jewels, and
everything belonging to the Lodge, was ordered to be made up at the
meeting in February, when Captain John Young, D.G.M., presided ;
also, complete Lists of Members in arrear, and all accounts against it
to be called in, in order that the debts may be ascertained, " and
proper orders granted for payment thereof." Various meetings were
held for the purpose of conferring degrees, and transacting other
business, at short intervals, and, on 6th April, Brother Donaldson of
Kinnardie made a present of " six dozen glasses" to the Lodge. On
4th May, a Committee was appointed for " settling with Bro. Enzer
anent the plaistering of the Lodge, and make an estimate qrof, and to
report." On ist June the Committee was asked to contract for finish-
ing the same, "but for a sum not exceeding ;^I2 sterling ;" also, to
agree with some " wright for making forms sufficient for the Lodge,
which are to be covered with baze, and to have them done with all
expedition."
* On 24th June the Annual Election took place, and on 6th July the
Lodge was visited by the Grand Master Wm. St. Clair, who, having
5 2 ®l)e €anongate ^iltninntng %oiist, ^o. ±
assumed the chair, appointed Grand Wardens pro tern., and conferred
the third degree. Thereafter, Brother Dean of Guild Allan was
appointed to represent this Lodge at the approaching meeting of
Grand Lodge. The visitors, this evening, included the Master of
Mother Kilwinning, and Brethren from Dalkeith, Tprphichen, and
other Lodges.
St. Clair again presided at the meeting of 3rd August, when the
Committee's report on the accounts was given in and passed. Brother
George Frazer being allowed a balance due to him, on " his accompt
concerning the Subscription Money for building the Lodge, . . .
and, upon the Lodge having an old Folio Bible presented by Bro.
Geo. Scot, for the use of the Lodge, the R. W. Master returned him
thanks " for the same. This Bible is still in possession of the Lodge.
At the August meeting, John Mitchell, who paid a fee of ;^3, 3s. and
2s. 6d. to Grand Lodge, with is. to the Tyler, was admitted, and the
Grand Master presided at another meeting this month, when he
initiated a new Member.
The following extract from the Minutes of next meeting, held on
7th September, will be read with interest : —
"A motion having likewise been made for altering that, by law
oblidging every brother to pay agt. his entrance monie three Guineas
the Lodge unanimously agreed to restrict the same to two Guineas
and to admit Br. Roger Oswald and John Mitchell, the two late
entrants, who paid three Guineas of entrance monie, as Subscribing
Members to the new Lodge of St. John's Chappie, upon their paying
in other- two Guineas, which is hereby declared to be in full of their
Subscription monie." The Lodge was visited by several of the
Edinburgh Lodges, and by two Brethren from Forest's Coffee-House,
London, and by Chas. Scot, a Steward of the Grand Lodge of
J^ngland.
On 29th September, being a Quarterly Communication, the Grand
Master Wm. St. Clair and Acting Grand Wardens preside and sign
the Minute. A motion was made for having " ye roof of ye Lodge
made water tight." "The Grand Clerk also visited ye Lodge and
dfiiattn tubtitb tn dranli ^otise ^oottsi. 53
returned ye Charter of this Lodge, duly recorded in the Grand Lodge."
An occasional meeting was held on the 30th, when Brother George
Frazer, " Old Master" presided, and admitted a new Member.
On the 28th of October, William Baillie, Factor to the Laird of
Lamington, and William Gumming, were initiated. The demise of
the latter was thus announced, some years afterwards, in one of the
periodicals of the day : " March 27, at Edinburgh, in an advanced age,
William Gumming, Esq., many years an eminent Banker."*
The Lodge met on St. John the Evangelist's Day, and was visited
by " St. Clair, by the present Provost of Edinburgh, Archd. M?: Aulay,
Member of Mary's Chappie, by Brethren from Leith, Leith and
Canongate and Canongate and Leith, Scots Arms, Edinburgh, and
Brethren from Mary's Chappie, besides several other visitors. Same
night, in consequence of a recommendation from the Gr. Lodge, a
motion for charity to the relict of the decest Mr. James Smith, Mason
in Edinr., being made, which was heartily agreed to, and the collec-
tion from the severall brethren present amounts to £2, i6s." . . .
£ s. d.
Note. — Collection of the Anniversary, . 7 13 o
To 2 Entry Monies, . . . 440
For Grand Lodge (3 at 2s. 6d.), . 076
To Servts., 033
12 7 9
* He was reputed to be extremely penurious. When walking in the streets
he used constantly to keep his arms spread out to prevent the people from
rubbing against his coat, and thereby injuring it. He was generally known
by the sobriquet of " The Crow." His appearance, when walking, presented
a striking resemblance to that bird.
CHAPTER IV.
n^ T the first meeting in 1738, on 4th January, no less than
i IJk thirteen Lodges are enumerated as being represented —
the first deputation beginning with Canongate and
Leith and Leith and Canongate, headed by the R. W. Master Brother
William Hay, and on ist February the Lodge is again visited by the
Past Grand Master, William St. Clair, and by the present Grand
WardenS) Secretary, and Treasurer, the R.W.M. of Mother Kilwinning,
and others. '
On sth April a letter was received from the Grand Lodge, anent
the Royal Infirmary, " which they referred to next meeting, and George
Frazer is excused, he having written a relevant Letter to the R.W. for
that effect." .. . .,
" The Depute Grand Master, and others, visited the Lodge on 3rd
May, the D.G.M. presiding;" and at the meeting on 7th June, "the
Lodge took into their consideration the Deficiency of the Brethren as
to their monthly payments, &c., and then unanimously agreed that
the present Treasurer should endeavour to collect the arrears due to
the Lodge, and to make such Compositions as he should think requisite
with those Members who should be in the least refractory in payment,
hereby declaring that, whatever Composition he should make, should
be as satisfactory to the Lodge as if they had done the same them-
selves." Then follows a list of visitors from nine Lodges, and " The
R. W. Master of Greenock Lodge presented to the Lodge a Letter,
under the hand of their Secretary, wherein was enclosed a Copy of
Verses done by an Entered Apprentice, which the Lodge approved of,
I^orb $rot)o$its!, acting Senior aviit |ttntor SS9arI)eni$. 53
and returned thanks to the Lodge of Greenock for their Compliment,
and ordained the same to be laid up with their other poems, to be
sung upon occasions." A meeting was, held on 13th June, when
" Francis Buchanan of Arnpryer (descendant of the facetious " King of
Kippen," in Stirlingshire), George Haliburton, present Eldest Bailie of
Edinburgh, and Robert Montgomerie, present Treasurer of said city,
were admitted Members,"
The Office-bearers were all re-elected on St. John's Day, and the
Minutes, from this date onwards, are headed " St. John's Chappel, Can-
nongate." After recording that representatives were received from
several Lodges, including Rome, Inverness, etc., the Minute proceeds : —
"Thereafter the Lodge took into their consideration an accompt
formerly given in by Bro. Thomas Allan, for Wine, &c., furnished
to this Lodge, and finding that it is not convenient for the Lodge
Immediately to make payment thereof, but, as it is most reasonable
that Bror. Allan should have interest for his monie, until payment. Doe
therefore, unanimously, agree that this Lodge shall be obliged to pay,
to the said Bror, Allan, the Interest of the sum of Twenty Pounds
Stg., as the ballance remaining of said accompt, from and since the
twenty-fourth of June, j""- vij'=- and thirty-seven years, yearly and termly
ay' and untill payment of said sum of Twenty pounds of prin'^-, over
and above the prin''- sum itself Thereafter, having Drunk the usual
health suitable to such a Grand occasion, the R.W, ordered the
proper Warden to dismiss the Brethren."
The next three meetings were visited by various Grand Office-
bearers, and on 4th October " The Lodge, having mett according to
adjournment, being duly formed, the R.W., in absence of the S.W.,
appointed the Right Honb''- James Colhoun, Lord Provost of Edinr.,
the Junr. Warden, to act as Senr. Warden, and Bro. Archd. M9. Aulay,
late Provost of Edinr., to act as Junr. Warden,/;v te^npore. Visited by
S.G. Warden, G, Secretary, G. Clerk, &c."
The following Minute, dated ist November, is copied in full, and is
very interesting on account of its quaintness and the information it
contains : —
56 Kl}t (Emonnutt fltltoinning l^obge, ^0. 2.
" The Lodge, having mett according to adjournment, being duly
formed by the Old Master as R.W. pj., the Lodge being visited by the
present R.W. Master, John Douglas, as Substitute Grand Master,
Dr. Chas. Alston and George Drummond, Esq., acting as Grand
Wardens, and George, Loch, S. Warden, joined with Wm. Seaton,
acting as J. Warden of this Lodge. The Lodge visited by Brethren
from the Lodge of Mary's Chappel, Leith Kilwinning, Scots Arms,
Paris, Peebles, Greenock, Cannongate and Leith Leith and Cannon-
gate, Glasgow Kilwinning, Falkland, Dalkeith, and New Inn, Exeter.
After the usual healths and prosperity to the Royal Infirmary, with
above Lodges, and the Grand Master Substitute Invited all the
Brethren present to attend the seting the work for this season at the
R. Infirmary, to-morrow, at 2 o'clock, and ordered the proper Warden
to close the Lodge."
An interesting list of fifty-four Lodges is recorded in the books
of Lodge St. David's, No. 36, and here are transcribed the first
seventeen. The list is headed thus : —
" The following Lodges Contributed for Apartments in the Infirmary,
Edinburgh, for 5 decayed Brethren, 4 of whom to be presented by the
Grand Lodge, and I by the Journeymen Lodge. ''
1. Mary's Chappel.
2. Canongate i^Cilwinning.
3. Scoon and Perth.
5. Canongate and Leith Leith and Canongate.
6. Old Kilwinning St. John Inverness.
8. Journeymen, Edinburgh.
9. Dunblane.
10. Dalkeith Kilwinning.
11. St. John, Maybole.
12. Greenock Kilwinning.
16. St. John, Falkirk.
, 23. Dunse.
24. Peebles Kilwinning (Old Lodge of Peebles).
30. Ancient Stirling.
35. St. John Falkland.
49. Ancient Dundee.
54. St. Machar, Aberdeen.
jaurrajj of ^rongljtott, jBtmt&ts to Printt CTI^arlfis ^tuart. sf
On 6th December, " The Lodge, having mett according to adjourn-
ment, being duly formed, was honoured with a visite from the Right
Honourable and Most Worshipfull the Earl of Kintore, Grand Master
for Scotland, the Grand Wardens, Grand Secretary, Grand Clerk, and
Grand Stewards, when the Most Worshipfull took the Chair, and the
Grand Wardens theirs. The Lodge was likewise visited by Brethren
from the rexive Lodges following, vizt. :— Mary's Chappel, Rome,
Leith, Scots Arms Edinr., Peebles, Cannongate and Leith Leith and
Cannongate, Greenock, St. Mongo's Glasgow, Torphichen, Dalkeith,
New Inverness, and Old Inverness. . . .
;^^*/*
J.UNDESAY, S.G.IV.
GEO. DRUMMOND,/.G.fF."
As usual, the Festival of St. John the Evangelist was celebrated on
the 27th, when the initiation took place of a gentleman who obtained
an unenviable notoriety subsequent to the Insurrection in 1745. The
Minute records that " the Lodge, having mett upon the Anniversary
of St. John the Evangelist's Day, according to the usual custom, and
being duly formed, they unanimously admitted John Murray, Esq. of
Broughton,* a Member of this Lodge. The Lodge was visited by
Brethren delegated from the following Lodges, vizt. : — the Lodge of
Leith, and all the Lodges in Edinburgh and Canongate." . . .
Appended to the Minute of 3rd January 1739 is a List of Members
who " are excused " from attending this evening, and " a Committee
of the Lodge, having stayed after the closing of the Lodge, This Com-
mittee unanimously agreed that every Article of Payment, as well as
* In the Minute, a pen has been drawn through Murray's name, and inter-
lined are the words, " Expunged by unanimous consent of the whole Lodge."
See Autograph, p. 63.
8
S^ Sije danbngale ^iltaiuntttg |lol)ge, ;p[b.. 2.
the Collection for the respective nights' Collection' from each Member
present, shall be put into the Box, and the Treasurer not charged
therewith. And as to Annual Poor's Payments which he has this
night collected, the same are put into the box conform to a signed
List under the R.W.'s hand, and at every meeting the Treasurer is
hereby ordered to present a List, which the R.W. is hereby desired to
sign, and the same — at least the amount of the same — to be engrossed
in the Minutes, and the money put into the box, and we humbly
declare the R.W.'s receipt a sufficient Discharge to the Treasurer of
this Lodge." • ' •
A Grand Visitation took place on 7th February, when James
Drummond, 3rd Duke of Perth, acted as S.G.W.
(
J^Ur
At the next meeting. Brother Thomas Gordon of Earlston, who
joined at last monthly meeting, acted as Junior Warden p.t, and the
Minute goes on to say, " Then a petition being presented by the
Ministers of the Gospell, Collectors of the Charity for the Relief of
the Indigent Episcopal! Clergy and their widows in Scotland, they
unanimously gave it as their opinion, and ordained their Treasurer,
Alexr. Hunter, to pay the sum after-mentioned to the petitioners or
any Collector appointed by them, viz., the sum of Three Guineas."
Visitors were received from Lodges at Rome, Paris, Drummond
Kilwinning, Dundee, Forres, New Bond Street, London, &c.
On 7th June the Minute finishes thus :— " The Lodge is hereby
adjourned to the twenty-fourth instant, being the Anniversary of
St. John the Baptist's Day, when the Members are requested to
attend, in order to the Election of the Officers of the Lodge, and
audit the present Treas':> accounts to be Discharged then, but as
loroeriitg of lobge Puts!. 59
said twenty-fourth inst. was to happen upon a Sunday, the Members
are desired to attend upon the 25th, when all brethren visitors after
the Election will be welcome."
" St. John's Chappell, Cannongate, 24th June 1739 : A:M: 5739.
" The Lodge having mett . . . appointed Brothers Thos. Trotter,
P.M., Harry Guthrie, Robert Blisset, and Charles Guthrie, Stewards,
with John Oswald and John Fyfe to be their Deputies. It was
unanimously agreed that the first By-law as to entrants should be
deminished from Three Guineas to Two Guineas, and the seventh
By-law is hereby for the future modified from One Shilling stg., for
each absent member to Sixpence stg., and no excuse to be admitted
unless being out of the Kingdom. Many visiting Brethren were
present." . . .
On 4th July, " the Stewards delivered in a subscribed Inventory 01
the things belonging to the Lodge," which the R. Worshipful ordered
to be placed in the box. It is needless to say that this Inventory is
not now in possession of the Lodge, neither was it engrossed in the
Minutes. At the following meeting on ist August, "the Treasurer
reported that he had pay'd to Isobel Grierson the sum of four pounds
four shillings, in consequence of a Decreet Arbitral upon a submission
by this Lodge and her, to Bros. Thos. Trotter and John Jack, Sclater,
anent a piece of ground upon which part of this Lodge-room was
built ; " and on this occasion there were present visitors from twelve
different Lodges, including the " Virgin Lodge of St. Mary's''
At a Special Meeting held on 12th Sept., the R.W. reported that
" upon the death of Bro. Wm. Clark, he had ordered the Treasurer
to disburse the expense of the deceased's funeral." It was at the
house of this Wm. Clark that the Lodge met so often, as alluded to
in the Minutes previous to building the present Lodge-room. The
Minutes of the remaining seven meetings during this year to St.
John the Elvangelist's Day, simply record the Entering, Passing, and
Raising of several Members, and the receiving of influential deputa-
6o 31)6 danongafe ^Utotnntng l^otige, |lo. 2.
tions from numerous Lodges, including Solomon's Lodge in Charles-
town, South Carolina, Gun Tavern in St. James' Mercatt, London,
and "St. Mary's at Drumseugh." On 2nd January 1740, each of the
brethren present paid 6s!, being their annual poor subscription to
the funds of the Lodge, and at next meeting on 6th February it is
recorded that suitable healths were drunk, in particular our R.W.
Master's "speedy and happy recovery." This Minute is signed by
" Geo. Frazer, Old Master." The following three Monthly Meetings
in March, April, and May, record nothing of speciail interest, but on
4th June the Master informed the Lodge " that for the benefit and
use of the Lodge there was commissioned from London, one puncheon
containing one hundred and eight English gallons of Rum, and one
barrel containing two hundred and fifty-five and one half pounds of
sugar, which being arrived. Brother Thos. Trotter generously advanced
the money for the same, amounting, conform to the Invoice and Bro.
' Allan's Receipt yron, to the sum of Fifty-four pounds, seventeen
shillings and sevenpence sterling. The Lodge in consideration yrof,
not only returned him their hearty thanks, but also obliged them,
likeas they hereby, bind and oblige themselves to content and pay to
the, said Thomas Trotter, his heirs or assignees, the fores'd sum of
Fifty-four pounds, seventeen shillings and sevenpence sterling, with
interest yrof from ye sixth of May last, at qch time ye same was
pay'd, aye and while payment of the same." On ^t. John the
Baptist's Day, 24th June 1740, the Bye-laws were revised, and
Deputations from sister Lodges received in due form, and on 6th
August the Lodge was visited by Capt. John Young, D.G.M., and
Archd. M'Aulay, Lord Provost, as S.G.W., and other Grand Officers,
all of whom sign , the Minute. From this date onwards to 27th
December, the Monthly Meetings were regularly attended by
numerous deputations from sister Lodges. On this date, however,
there was admitted David Bethune, younger of Kilconquhar, Esq.
The Minute of the first meeting in 1741, on the 7th of January,
records that the Lodge appointed a Committee to meet on 31st
inst., for various purposes, and to make out a statement "of the
Ilqjort on |[oiigt Itffiatris. 6i
Lodge's circumstances," all which " the Lodge ordain to be reported
to next Monthly Meeting." The February Monthly Meeting is
headed thus : —
St. John's Chapell, nth February 1741, Second Wednesday
(First Wednesday being a National Fast).
The Committee's report was delayed till next meeting, when it
was again postponed, and at this meeting, 4th March, a new
Member was admitted, the Lodge being visited, amongst others,
by brethren from the Theatre Coffee-House in Bridge Street, London,
and Vernon Kilwinning.
On 1st April, the Lodge being duly formed "prorogated the time
for the Committee's Report till next Monthly Meeting," and on
7th of the same month the Lodge having met occasionally, the
R. Worshipful appointed Sir John Scott of Ancrum to be Senior
Warden pro tent., and proceeded to admit four gentlemen. " Then
the R.W. drunk the health of the Past Grand Master, Rosline, he
being present, as also Sir George Mackenzie, with the Lodge of
Inverness to which he belongs." At the next two meetings the
business was of the usual monthly character, and on loth June the
Committee's report on the affairs of the Lodge wcis given in, from
which it appears " that the Treasurer, Alex. Hunter, has accomptcd
to the Lodge for £g, 5s. ii^d., which he received from Mr. Durham
of Largo, as purchaser of Rumgally, and for which in his discharge
he granted Absolute Warrandice. Therefore it is hereby enacted
that the Lodge shall be lyable to relieve him of all damage, interest,
and expense he shall happen to sustain or incur yrby."
Numerous delegates from sister Lodges were present to assist in
celebrating the Festival of St. John the Baptist. Vernon Kilwinning
was represented by Charles Leslie, one of its original Members, who
delivered an address at its consecration entitled, "Vindication of
Freemasonry," which was subsequently published in the "Free-
mason's Pocket Companion." While the Lodge of Edinburgh
62 ^t)e (S^a:nongate ^ilrainning l^olige, flo. 2.
Mary's Chapel was engaged on this date in " drinking the common
and ordinary healths," a visiting brother reported " that one Thomas
Cuming, teacher of stenography and a Quaker, had been guilty of
ane indignity to the Lodge of Can.ongate Kilwining, it was resolved
not to admitt him in this Lodge, either as a member or visiting
brother, until! he give satisfaction for his offence." No reference
whatever is made to this circumstance in the Minutes of the Lodge,
nor does the name of this Member of the Society of Friends appear
on the Roll.
At the Monthly Meeting on 2nd September, the Lodge was
presided over by Bro. Thos. Trotter, who was R.W. Master in
1735, and on 2nd December it is minuted "that upon Patrick
Duff, Writer in Edinburgh, and Mr. Adams of Whiblide entering the
Lodge, tho' it appeared they had been made in an irregillar manner.
Therefore they were turn'd out till such time as theycomplyd to
enter anew, and upon their paying half fees, the same was done."
" At this meeting Mr. Veitch, by letter of this date, begged pardon
for an irregular intrusion," and on 28th December it is recorded that
"the Lodge detailed certain of their members to visit the several
Lodges in and about Edinburgh, and congratulate such Masters and.
proper officers as shall in these several Lodges be regularly and
duly elected. The several members did accordingly visit and report
that all the Elections in these several Lodges were regular except
in the Lodge of C. & L. L. & C, where they were refused access,
and from certain circumstances they had reason to believe there
was no proper number of Members in that Lodge to form a regular
Lodge, consequently there could be no regular Election of Master
and oy' officers, and upon enquiry, that none was certified to them."
It is worthy of remark that deputations from the above Lodge
invariably visited Canpngate Kilwinning at the Monthly Meetings for
several years, and there is no record of another visitation from it until
after St. John the Evangelist's Day 1742, when they again begin
and continue to attencl regularly.. The Minutes on to 2nd June
1742, are merely formal notices of the meetings but on this date,
/ttneral %i)it^t for |Dorb ^rooost doHjonn.
63
after recording the several visitors present, the Minute proceeds : —
"Thereafter some Hyms being sung to the memory of Provost
James Colquhoun, a late worthy member of this Lodge, who was
this day interred," the Lodge is adjourned till the, 24th inst, being
the anniversary of St. John the Baptist, and day of Election of
Officers for the ensuing year.
Two new Stewards were appointed this year in addition to the
former ones, and as customary on every annual Election Day, the
whole code of Bye-laws were read to the meeting. On 6th September,
the initiation of John Boswell, M.D., Censor of the Royal College
of Physicians in Edinburgh, took place. He was uncle of
Boswell the Biographer of Dr. Johnson, and was one of a Committee
appointed by Grand Lodge in 1759 "to inquire into and inspect the
condition and situation of the French prisoners presently in the
Castle of Edinburgh, particularly such of them as they shall find to
be Freemasons, and to report as to their necessities and number."
On 1st December the R.W. Master appointed "Mr. Murray of
Broughton, Junior Warden pro tern." but in terms of the Minute of
27th December 1738, his name was afterwards defaced, as well as
his signature to this Minute. The Lodge was on this occasion visited
by "the Most Worshipful the Earl of Kilmarnock, Grand Master, Sir
John Scott of Ancrum, S.G.W.," and other Grand Officers, all of
whom sign the Minute. Appended are fac-similes of Lord Kilmar-
nock and Murray of Broughton's autographs, as here recorded.
^^:
JOHN SCOTT, S.G.W.
64 eCIje CTaitoitgate ^ilromntng ILobgt, ^o. 2.
On 27th December, on the occasion of the Festival of St. John the
Evangelist, the R.W. intimated that in consequence of the great
inconvenience in sending deputations under cloud of night to con-
gratulate the other Lodges upon their several Elections, he intends
in future to visit their first Monthly, Meetings, and will give due
notice of the necessary arrangements foj: that purpose. After
transacting the other routine business the meeting closed, and the
Minute is followed by an important entry, which runs thus : —
" Eodem die, after the preceding Minute was wrote, but before the
same was signed, it was represented to the Lodge that there was a
vacancy of one of the ministers in the Canongate, in the calling ot
whom the Lodge has a vote. The Master, after advising with the
Lodge, it was put to the vote, whether the Lodge would concur in
the call to Mr. Hew Blair or Mr. Walker, and it was carried by a
majority, to concur in the call for Mr. Hew Blair, and therefore the
Lodge hereby, authorise the Rt. W. John Douglas, their present
Master, in their name to sign a call in favour of Mr. Blair, and to do
every other thing necessary in order to make Mr. Blair's settlement
effectual, and in case he cannot personally attend to grant a proxie
for thqt effect."
The usual Monthly Meetings were held in January and February,
and on 2nd March 1743 the Minute ends as follows: — "This was
wrote by me, Brother Francis Barsanti, for want of better business."
The succeeding Minute of 6th April being written in the same
handw;riting finishes thus : — " and this was wrote by Brother A. B.,
for want of better business. I have forgot to mark that the Lodge
was visited by Brother Chalmers from Dunferling."
Murray of Broughton again acts as Junior Warden on nth May,
when the same liberties have been taken with his signature as
formerly. At the Annual Meeting, a state of the Lodge affairs was
ordered to be prepared, and on 3rd August, Dr. John Boswell was
appointed Junior Warden /7W tempore. This is the first Minute signed
by that distinguished member of the Lodge. On 7th December there
was admitted The Right Honbl^ John Gordon, 8th Viscount Ken-
®ttU)S to t\)t %oi>Qt ^ropertg. ^5-
mure (2nd son of William, 6th Viscount, who was beheaded on
Tower Hill for the part he took in the Rebellion of 1715), and Mr.
James Clydesdale, Minister of Coltquhar, the dues of the latter being
dispensed with. It was reported that on St. Andrew's Day, the
Right Hon. James, Earl of Wemyss, was elected Grand Master
Nothing of consequence is recorded in any of the Minutes
onwards to 25th June 1744, when, with one exception, the officers
were continued.
On 4th July, four brethren, including Dr. Boswell, were passed
Fellow-Craft, each paying 7s. 6d. for the honour, and on 17th of
the same month there were admitted General Hill of Philadelphia,
and G. Mathison of Jamaica. On Sth December, it was intimated
by the R. Worshipful that The R. Hon. and R.W. James, Earl of
Murray, &c., has been elected Grand Master on St. Andrew's Day,
and Major Robertson and Dean of Guild Allan of this Lodge, Grand
Wardens. He also reported " that Mr. Clifton of the Excise, in name
of the owners of the Organ, had made a demand for re-delivery
thereof The Lodge having taken this into consideration, agree
that the same be delivered up, upon condition that the proprietors,
before delivery, pay into the Treasurer, not only the whole charges
expended by the Lodge in transporting the organ yrto, but also the
expense of repairing the same from time to time, and House Rent
therefore, while it continues in the Lodge, to be made up at the
sight of the R.W. and Wardens, and no otherways." This does not
refer to the organ at present in possession of the Lodge, as will be
seen later on.
On 27th December, the R.W. represented " that as yet there had
never been any Right of the property of the Lodge made out in
favour of the original subscribers for building the same . . .
which the Lodge taking into consideration, they hereby appoint
a Committee, three a quorum, to meet, and to give in a Report to
next meeting." Thereafter, Wm. Nisbet of Dirleton, and other two
gentlemen, were admitted Members of the Lodge. At next meeting
in January 174S, the Committee on Lodge affairs was continued, and
9
66 St)e Ctanonsate l^tliDtnntng |Lobge, fio. 2.
"the Steward for the night, at sight of the R.W. pay'd for mending
the stair of the cellar, five shillings stg," Nothing important tran-
spired, except the admission of members, amongst whom was the
Honble. Wm. Fraser from Inverness, until 5th June, when " The
whole members agreed to indemnify all members of this Lodge both
absent and present, from payment of all ffines and arrears preceeding
this date, provided such members, who shall take the benefit of this
indemnity, shall not absent themselves in time coming, without a
reasonable excuse intimated to the chair in case they are in and
about Edinburgh."
Other three meetings took place before 4th September, when " the
Lodge is adjourned to the first Wednesday of December next."
Prior to this latter date the Lodge had invariably been adjourned
to the first Wednesday of the succeeding month, and frequent
" occasional " meetings were held at intervening dates.
" On 4th December, the Lodge having been adjourned on the 4th
of September last to this day, on account of the troubles of the country,
and having mett in consequence of said adjournment, they were
visited by Brother Hugh Hunter from CannongateSc Leith Leith
and Cannongate. The proper business of the Lodge being over, and
the usual Healths Drunk, the R.W. appointed the Senr. Warden to
close the Lodge and dismiss the Brethren, and the Lodge is hereby
adjourned to the first Wednesday of January next, or to the first
Wednesday of any other month on which the Times will admitt of the
Brethren to meet"
I
CHAPTER V.
'T appears that the Rebellion did not interfere to any great
extent with the meetings of Canongate Kilwinning. The
Lodge, however, did not again meet till 24th June 1746
when the " Lodge, having discontinued their monthly meetings some-
time past, by Reason of the Troubles of the Land and other mis-
fortunes," proceeded to re-elect the Master and other office-bearers,
and recommended the Committee to obtain from George Frazer a
Deed " denuding himself of the Rights of the Lodge as formerly
directed. Further, they recommend " the Brethren " to attend their
monthly meetings as formerly."
The organ at present in use in the Lodge was built in 1754, but
at this date, as already stated, the Brethren had provided them-
selves with one, for on 2nd July 1746, "unlimited power was given to
Brother Hunter to agree with Mr. Clifton and the other gentlemen of
the Vestry in the English Chapel about delivering up the organ, and
to report." On 5th November, a Grand Lodge visitation took place,
headed by Henry David, Earl of Buchan, and the other Grand Lodge
office-bearers, all of whom sign the Minute. On 3rd December it was
reported that William Nisbet of Dirleton was elected G.M. on St.
Andrew's Day, and amongst the other officers was Andrew Hay of
Mugdrum, J.G.W., the latter having been R.W.M. of Canongate Kil-
winning in 1749. The "troubles in the country" seem to have had a
depressing effect on the Lodge's finances, for on 4th February it is
recorded that " the Lodge, having mett according to appointment, and
being duely formed and opened. Did proceed to Audite and fitt the
68 Vtljt d^anongate ^tltoinntng l^obge, ^o. 2.
Amounts laid before them by Alexander Hunter, Treasurer, And the
Master and Wardens, in presence of the Stewards and other Members,
Found and hereby Declare That there is owing to the said Alexander
Hunter a Ballance of Nineteen pounds six shillings and nine pence
farthing Sterling, conform to the accompt of Charge and Discharge,
Fitted, Docqueted, and Subscribed of this date. Which Ballance, with
the lawfuU Interest thereof, from the date hereof. The Lodge hereby
Bind and Oblige them to Content and pay to the said Alexander
Hunter, his heirs and assignees. The Master, Wardens, and Brethren,
Having Examined the former Minutes, with an Acct. given in by
Brother Thomas Trotter, and Relative hereunto They Find That
there is a Ballance due to him at this date of Ninety pounds fourteen
shillings sixpence three farthings Sterl-., Which Ballance the Lodge
Do hereby Bind and Oblige themselves To pay to the said Thomas
Trotter, his heirs and assignees, together with the lawfull Interest
thereof, from this date untill payment : And It is hereby understood
That the above obligation. is not to be Binding upon the particular
Members of the Lodge, but only to affect the subject of the Lodge
itself, and the Rise was given to this Explaination by Brother Doctor
Boswall, his protesting That he should be always lyable for the above
two Debts, as being Junior Warden ^ro tempore!' . . .
Passing over several Minutes of little general interest, and coming
to the Annual Election on St. John's Day, 24th June, it is found that
the " WorshipfuU George Frazer, as Old Master, presided," when the
same officers as last year were elected and installed. Thereafter the
Lodge took under their consideration the Debt due to Brother Thonias
' Trotter, when Mr. Frazer agreed to denude himself of all right and
Title to the Lodge, in favour of Mr. Trotter, and Mr. Frazer signs this
Minute, which fully sets forth the terms of the agreement. Then, on
1st July, a petition for wright work was presented, craving payment
of his accompt from James Aitken, Wright, " amounting (as he says)
to about ;^46 stg., besides a ffloor above the Cellar of about 30 sh.
more, with which a Missive, subscribed by Thos. Trotter as preses to
a Committee, dated ye 28th March 1737, being considered by the
Itttton againist Cgeorgt /rajer. 69
Lodge, They unanimously Resolved and agreed to pay the said
James Aitken what shall be found still oweing to him after measuring
his work, as proposed by the said Missive, and allowance of what is
already payed him."
On 7th October, Messrs. David Dalrymple and William Binning,
Advocates, were admitted, and on 2nd December "John Stewart, eldest
son to Provost Archibald Stewart, was duely entered and received a
Mason." No meeting was held in January, and on 3rd February it is
explained " that the Reason of not meeting on the ffirst Wednesday
of last month, as usual, was on account of the Right Worshipful and
his family's indisposition at that time, and for some time before."
It was reported on 4th May that Brother Harry Guthrie had got
possession of all Papers and Reports relating to the Property, that he
had made out a scroll conveyance and Disposition and Bond of
Relief in terms of the Minute of 24th June last, but that Mr. Frazer
absolutely refused to sign it, or to Denude himself of any right as
agreed, " alledging some frivilous pretences and excuses." There-
upon, legal steps were ordered to be taken, to oblige Mr. Frazer to
" denude " himself, and the Lodge to pay all expenses incurred.
Liberty was granted " to Brother William Robertson the use of the
room for Auctioning his pictures and other curiosities in all time
coming, but during their pleasure alleanarly."
The Minutes for many years subsequent to June this year, are
headed with complete lists of the members and visitors present at
each meeting, and on 3rd August it is recorded that the sum of
£2> 2s. 6d. was paid to Grand Lodge as the dues of " Twenty-five
members who have been entered in this Lodge since 28th November
1739 to this date, at the rate of 2s. 6d. each."
On 7th December it was reported that nothing had yet been done
in pursuance of the Minute of 4th May last, and instructions were
given that action be taken forthwith, and report it to next meeting
on St. John the Evangelist's Day, on which date, Brother Jackson
attended, and reported that he had a meeting with Mr. Frazer, but
without success. The matter was then re-committed, and if necessary
70 SI)c fflanongatt ^iltntnning l^oftge, ^o. 2.
to employ the " assistance of Lawyers." " The Lodge declare they will
Repay what money shall be laid out thereanent."
A Grand Lodge visitation took place on 5 th April, headed by
Hugh Seton of Tough, Esq., Grand Master, accompanied by the
Grand Wardens and other officers of the Grand Lodge, all of whom
sign the Minute. After the Minute of 3rd May, there is recorded an
Eodem Die, to the effect that if Mr. George Frazer refuses to imple-
ment the terms of the Minute of 24th June 1747, an action be raised
against him at the instance of Thomas Trotter, in order to force a
settlement.
On 24th June the Master and officers were re-elected for the
ensuing year, and on 5th July Brother Forbes from Rotterdam
presented the Lodge " with a Copy of the French Mason songs set to
Music, and received the thanks of the Lodge therefore." On ist
November an account was presented for "plaistering up the West
window of the Lodge, amounting to ten shillings, which the members
were of opinion was Extravagant, and therefore it was ordered that
the work should be measured betwixt this and next meeting, when
the usual price for such work should be paid according to the
measure." After the meeting of 6th December, it is minuted, " There-
after and before closing the Lodge, Brother Robert Douglas reported
that he had caused Call and Inroll the^ process at Bro. Thomas
Trotter's instance ag'- George Frazer, and that the same was fixed
before the Lord Drummore Ordinary." The matter was, however,
referred to Mr. Alexander Boswell and Mr. David Dalrymple,
Advocates, as Arbiters, and Bro. Douglas recommended to endeavour
to get it brought to a conclusion as soon as possible.
Owing to the " badness of the weather," no meeting was held in
February, and on 4th April there was read, to the Lodge a submission
betwixt the R.W. Master and members of the Lodge on the ohe part,
and William Wilson, Writer in Edinburgh, with consent of James
Aitken, Wright, on the other part, concerning a balance of account
said to be due by the Lodge, and for which a Process is depending
before the Court of Session, of which Submission the Lodge approved.
Pueis I)igl)er tl)an otl)er l^oige^ in ^cotlanli. 71
At the Annual Meeting instructions were given, that "should Mr.
Frazer make any delay or shift to sign the Submission, the Process
depending before the Court of Session be insisted on with all con-
venient Despatch." The Minute of 3rd April 175 1 records that Bro.
George Frazer gave his reason for not denuding himself of the Lodge
property, namely, " That he was not in safety in doing so until some
debts against the Lodge were liquidated, and for which he was held
responsible."
On 1st May, "it was suggested by some of the Brethren, that on
account of the dues in use to be paid by Intrant Brethren in this
Lodge, being considerably higlier than most of the other Lodges in
Scotland, many gentlemen are deterred from making application for
entry in this Lodge, who would otherwise much rather be of this
Lodge, if the fees of entry were the same. That therefore, if the said
dues of Entry were made lower, and reduced nearer a par with other
Lodges, it would greatly promote the interest of the Lodge." This
was duly seconded, but owing to the small attendance the matter was
referred to next meeting of the Lodge for confirmation. Accordingly
at next meeting, on 5th June, the Dues were unanimously lowered and
fixed " for all time coming " at One Guinea to the Lodge, ninepence
for an apron, one shilling and threepence to the officer, and half-a-
crown to the Grand Lodge. Nine brethren from Peebles were present
as visitors, and three new Members were admitted, including Dr.
Nathaniel Spens.
St. Clair's name is recorded as having attended on 24th June, and
again on 4th September, and appended to the Minute of the meeting
of 4th December is a memo, of the night's financial affairs, and the
following Inventory of the contents of the Lodge, headed thus : —
" After disolving the Lodge the Right Worshipful appointed William
Mercer and James Hardie two of the Stewards to Inspect the situa-
tion of the cloathing belonging to this Lodge, as also of the Bottles,
Glasses, &c., stools thereto belonging, and upon inspection the same
was by the said Brethren, found to be as follows, vizt. : —
72 di\}t Canongate ^ilminning %oi%e, fCo. 2.
Four Dozzen Choppin Bottles. n Five .Chairs for the Officers
Three Dozzen & three Glasses. | acting in ye Lodge.
Five Ribbon'd Aprons. ! Twenty Stools.
Two Dozzen Old Aprons. | Six long Tables Covered with
One Dozzen new aprons furnished I Green. & Tresses yrfor.
of this date. > Eight Furms or Long Stools.
Two Delph Punch Bowls and a Wooden Punch Ladle, One
Peuther Pint and Mutchkin Stoup, and white Iron Filler, Six
Delph Plates, One Pair Iron Snuffers, and six Brass Candlesticks
and small stone mugg.
Canongate, 4th December 1751.
The above is the Inventory made up of this date by
WM. MERCER.
JAMES HARDIE."
At the meeting of 9th December there were admitted six new
members (and every succeeding Minute testifies, for many years, to
the great accession of new Members to the roll). This Minute is
signed by the R.W. Master, John Douglas, who strongly recommended
the Brethren to be punctual in their attendance next meeting, being
the occasion of the Feast of St. John the Evangelist, but before that
date (27th December) arrived, as will be seen from the following
extracts, Bro. Douglas himself had passed over to the great
majority.
"The Lodge being mett, according to appointment to com-
memorate the Festival of St. John the Evangelist, And the chair
being vacant by the death of the much lamented ajid ever-to-be-
remembered John Douglas, the late Master, The Right Worshipful
George Frazer, Old Master, took the Chair, . . . and the Right
Worshipful and other Officers and Members of this Lodge being all
cloathed in deep mourning, and the Master and Wardens with crapes
above their ordinary Jewels." . , . Deputations were appointed
®l)arter for tonsttttxting a IDobgc at ^Icppo, in STurktB. 73
" to visit the Lodge of Mary's Chappel and the Lodge of Journeymen
Masons, and carry the Compliments of this Lodge on their Elections.
The R.W. appointed a meeting of the Subscribers to the building of
this Lodge to meet in the Exchange Coffee House. . . . The
Brethren who were sent to the other Lodges, being returned,
Reported that they had found these Lodges all cloathed in deep
mourning, and their Jewels all covered with crapes, and that they
condoled with this Lodge very heartily for their loss by the death of
our late Master . . . and desired their compliments of con-
dolence to be made to this Lodge accordingly."
The breach between George Frazer and the Lodge had now been
healed, for he presided at each meeting, and on 24th June was
unanimously elected Master for the second time. On ist January
following, the arrears to Grand Lodge were paid up, and a new five-
branched Candlestick, for the use of the Lodge, was purchased at the
price of One Guinea. A special meeting was held in April for the
purpose of Passing and Raising, " and the Lodge to be then cloathed
for that purpose." This meeting appears to have been followed by a
convivial one, as there is appended to the Minute a note, stating that
" There was furnished for the use of the Lodge 2 doz. new aprons,
2 doz. Glasses ' not yet paid fori and 2 doz. new bottles." Wm. St.
Clair of Rosline, Old Grand Master, was present on 8th April, when
five Fellow Crafts were passed, each paying the usual fee of 5s. It
was at this meeting that " a Charter for Constituting a Lodge at
Aleppo in Turkey, was signed by the Most Worshipful Master and
the other proper office-bearers of the Grand Lodge, and also by the
office-bearers of this Lodge." No corresponding entry of this early
Scottish Charter is to be found in the books of the Grand Lodge.
Vigorous steps were about this time set on foot to clear up the
debts owing by the Lodge to Brothers Alexander Hunter and
Thomas Trotter, and on 6th May a large Committee was formed
and appointed to meet with them in order to get a state of the debt
made up. On 3rd June, Dr. Mathew Stewart, of the Lodge of
74 ^\)t danongate ISUtomninj f^obge, ^o. 2.
Glasgow, and Professor of Mathematics in the University of Edin-
burgh, was affiliated. He paid a fee of $s., with 2s. 6d. for the use of
Grand Lodge. Mention of Grand Lodge dues draws attention to the
fact that several brethren from other parts of Scotland, on being
affiliated into Canongate Kilwinning, were charged these dues, as
there were doubts on the question whether their respective Mother
Lodges attended to the matter. Witness the Minute of 17th June,
when "Brother Dr. Hamilton from the Lodge of Lanerk, George
Sutherland from the Lodge of Kirkwall in Orkney, and Roger
Stevenson from the Lodge of Glasgow, were admitted members, and
paid the dues to this Lodge, Ss. each, besides the Grand Lodge dues.
But in case it shall be found upon inspecting the Grand Lodge Books
that they are already recorded, the half-crowns are to be returned."
-On St. John's Day sixty-nine members attended, and George Frazer
was again re-elected R.W.M. "The RevJVLr^ames Yair, Minister
of the Reformed Protestant Church atySSwnpo^ was admitted, and
his dues dispensed with on account of gf eat ii sgand service done to
brethren and countrymen abroad." At the meeting on 13th July,
there were also entered several new members, amongst whom appears
the name of " The Right Hon. Charles Fleming, Earl of Wigton."
Dr. Nathaniel Spens, though only an Entered Apprentice, acted as
Junior Warden at next meeting, and the sanie evening was passed
Fellow Craft. The Master was appointed to attend and vote as he
should think fit, for a successor to the late Mr. James Walker,
Minister of the Canongate. Two brethren from the Lodge of
Canongate from Leith (now St. David's), were affiliated on 12th
August, paying the usual dues as above stated. It appears that at
this period, the fee for passing F.C. was Ss., and fdr raising, 7s. 6d.
each. "R.W. Sig'- Andrea Hay, Old Master," presided on 4th
October, when the Committee's Report, as ordered on 6th May last,
was submitted, and unanimously approved. A Committee was then
appointed to enquire into the " Progress of Writes of the Lodge, and
for procuring and- making up proper and legal Titles thereunto, with
power to the said Committee if they shall find it necessary to ask the
^{pott of tl)e ^Dolige |L^atw'. 75
opinion and assistance of Lawyers, and do everything hereanent, that
to them shall seem meet."
Thereafter the copy of an elaborate Report of the Lodge affairs is
engrossed, of which the following are interesting extracts : —
"AND THEY DO ALSO FIND, That the ballance resting to Thomas
Trotter of principall, bearing interest from the Tenth day of August last.
Extends to Forty-one pounds, fifteen shillings, Eight pence ^ Sterling. And
That the Ballance resting to Alexander Hunter at this date, is Fifteen pounds
Eighteen shillings, tenpence ^ Sterling. . . . The Committee Do
further hereby Report to their Brethren of the Lodge, That they did in
particular, carefully examine the said Alexander Hunter's accounts with
respect to the disposal of the RUM and SUGAR, which was Commissioned
by, and for the use of, the Lodge, the price of which was payed by the said
Thomas Trotter, conform to his said accompt, the instructions whereof are
still in his hands. And They Do hereby CERTIFY That it is their opinion
the same has been all accompted for by Mr. Hunter to the Lodge in the most
exact manner. And That the Lodge has received payment of, or allowance
forthe whole of said Rum and Sugar, sold by Mr. Hunter, and not made use
of by the Lodge, Excepting Six Pints of Rum received by Richd. Cooper,
which is still resting, and which he refuses to pay, alledging he has a claim
against the Lodge to a greater extent ; And Thirteen Pints One Mutchkin of
Rum received by James Norrie, Painter, which was given him as a present
for his trouble and expenses in painting the Lodge, for which he refused to
take any payment, and which if he had done, would have amounted to much
more than the value of said Rum so given him. And Excepting also Fourteen
pounds Two ounces of Sugar received by Dean of Guild Thomas Allan, and
which is also not paid up, by reason of small claim he has against the Lodge
for Commission and Exchange, &c., alledged due him for Commissioning
the said Rum and Sugar, And that with these Three exceptions it appears to
the Committee The whole of the said Rum and Sugar has been used by or
accounted for and payed to the Lodge to the last sixpence. AND the
Committee do further Report That the said Alexander Hunter has delivered
up to them a Bundle of Accounts paid to Tradesmen for building the Lodge,
and Cognosced by the Lodge before the Dean of Guild of Edinburgh, in the
name of George Frazer, present Master of the Lodge, Together with Mrs.
Grierson's Declaration with respect to the Area of the Lodge. . . . One
thing further, The Committee beg leave to mention to the Lodge with respect
to the said Alexander Hunter, and which is, That a great many years ago,
Dr. Moncrief of Rumgay, having become debitor to the Lodge in the sum of
Eleven pounds Sterling by Bill, and after his death his Estate was sold and
purchased at a pubUck roup by Mr. Durham of Largo, who payed to Mr.
76 3l)e Ctanongate ^.tlroittning IDobge, fio. 2.
Hunter, as Treasurer to the Lodge, the sum of Nine pounds five shillings
and elevenpence ^ Sterling, being the proportion of Dr. Moncrieff' s Estate,
that the Lodge was entitled to draw as a Creditor of his in the above original
sum, and which Bill the said, Alexander Hunter as Treasurer foresaid, was
thereupon obliged to deliver up to Mr. Durham, and did acordingly assign,
and in the assignation tlifireof granted absolute warrandice to the extent of
the sum so received. The Committee/ are of opinion The Lodge ought to
become bound to relieve Mr. Hunter of that Warrandice, seeing he has given
Credit for the sum so received in his accpmpts."
The Report is signed by a Committee consisting of thirteen
members.
CHAPTER VI.
j^r^HE act procured in 1767 by Lord Provost Drummond for
J I extending the royalty of the city, was the outcome of
exertions put forth by various bodies in Edinburgh,
beginning at this period. On 21st November 1752, "the R.W. repre-
sented that there was now carrying on a subscription for Beautifying
the City of Edinburgh by public Buildings, extending the Royalty, and
other Public Works, and if they, as a Lodge, inclined to subscribe to this
laudable scheme, which the Lodge unanimously resolved on, and Did,
and hereby Do, impower the R.W. George Frazer to subscribe in the
name of the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge, the sum of Twenty Pounds
Stg." Besides the above amount, it is recorded that private sub-
scriptions from members this evening for the same object realized Ten
Guineas. The Lodge meetings for several years after this occur much
more frequently than had been the custom, and often two meetings in
one week are recorded. On the 28th five members were admitted,
including the "Servant to George Drummond, Esq., late Lord
Provost, Grand Master Elect, and his dues dispensed with out of
regard to his master." Next evening, other five members were
admitted, amongst whom were Messrs. Robert and James Adams, the
celebrated Architects. A Grand Lodge visitation took place on 6th
December, headed by George Drummond, Grand Master (a fac-simile
of whose signature is appended to the Minute of 25th June 1764, when
he was elected R.W.M. of Canongate Kilwinning). About one hundred
brethren were present, and " the M.W.G.M. addressed the Brethren,
and in a very Elegant and Pathetick speech pointed out and recom-
78 Wi)t danongate ^tlromnihg ^Lolige, ffo; 2'.-
mended to them severally their duty in their respective stations, and
concluded with a recommendation to all the Brethren present, the
observation of their behaviour as Brethren and Freemasons." On St.
John the Evangelist's Day, the Grand Master again visits the Lodge,
this time accompanied by the D.G.M., Grand Warden, and other
officers of the Grand Lodge. Numerous Intrants having lately joined,
a resolution was unanimously passed at this meeting that the dues
in future would be raised to Two Guineas for the Lodge, is. 3d. for
clothing, IS. 3d. for the Officer, and for Grand Lodge Charity, 2s. 6d.
Further, that from henceforth no member be made without pre-
senting a Petition, which must lie on the table one month previous to
being entered, except in cases of emergency. " Thei-eafter, the Most
Worshipful the Grand Master, The Deputy Grand Master, and Senior
Grand Warden, were upon their own application admitted members
and brethren of this Lodge, and the dues usually paid on that occasion
were refused by this Lodge." On 9th January, the R.W.M. delivered
to the Lodge "a very suitable and elegant harangue, recommending
the observance of the social virtues and all the other distinguishing
marks of the true Brothers of the Craft," after which he reported
having admitted, at a special meeting, "the Revd. Francis Porter,
Minister of the Gospel in Edinburgh, dispensing with the ordinary
dues." The Lodge was called together on the 2Sth May 1753, i"
order to enter Sir Ralph Abercrombie, K.B., Younger of Tullibody
(hero of the battle of Aboukir Bay), and on 6th June another clergy-
man was admitted, " The Rev. Mr. Peter Simpson, Minister of the
Gospel at Fala, and the usual dues dispensed with, otii of regard to
the Ministerial cloth and character" The Minute goes on to record
that a letter was received from a brother explaining that his creditors
were pressing him, particularly the proprietors of "ane Eight-day
clock, which the Lodge had detained for and until they got payment
of a small debt due by him, and which he now begged the Lodge to
cancel, deliver up the clock, and pass from the claim." This the Lodge
at oncei acceded to. On ist August, amongst other intrants appear
the names of James Bruce of Kinnaird (The Abyssinian Traveller),
J5tr llalpl) ^betcrombie, anil ^Brate, t|)t ^bsjBjStnian STraBtller. 79
and William Graham of Airth, Esq., and on 5th September another
visitation was made by George Drummond, Grand Master, when he
intimated " his intention of laying the Foundation stone of the new
Exchange in the City of Edinburgh on Thursday next the 1 3th inst.,
and the manner of the procession on that grand solemnity." Some
members from " Causewayside near Edinburgh" were admitted on
1 2th September, "four of them to attend as servants to-morrow at
the procession for laying the first stone of the new Exchange." The
Minute of the Monthly Meeting in December records that " There
was no collection this evening by reason that, to help off some Punch
left on hand at the Grand Feast, the Lodge agreed to lett the servant
have the benefit of selling so much of it this night." Charles Hamil-
ton Gordon, Esq., Advocate, who was raised in Canongate Kilwin-
ning on 29th November 1752, and elected Grand Master on St.
Andrew's Day this year, visited the Lodge on 27th December,
attended by the other Grand Lodge officers. They again paid a
visit on 6th February 1754, to hold a quarterly communication of
Grand Lodge, each official carefully signing the various Minutes.
Appended is the autograph of the Grand Master : —
A Special Meeting of Committee was appointed to be held on
Thursday at 6 o'clock, " and ordered the officer to have fires put on,
and the Lodge in proper order." Another alteration in the dues was
made on 3rd April, when they were reduced tO;^i, 55. 6d. for Intrants.
The matter, however, was challenged at the Annual Meeting on 24th
June, when, "after the visiting brethren had retired, the R.W.M.
represented that from some reflections which had been thrown out,
the proceedings had been irregular and rash, asked the members
present to give their opinion on the subject, when they unanimously
declared that the dues as settled were high enough, and approved of
the reduction." It is stated that on the 24th of April there was
8o Sl)t danongate l^tlroinning IDobgt, ^o. 2.
admitted James Coutts, one of the founders of the eminent banking
house of Messrs. Coutts & Co., London.
On i8th September, the R.W. Master acquainted the Brethren that
the object of this meeting was chiefly to lay before them a proposal
for getting a new Organ for the Lodge. That Mr. Snetzlear, the
Organist from London, was in Edinburgh, and having been brought
down here in the month of June last and shown the Lodge Room, he
was asked his opinion of what Organ would be proper for the Room,
and what price a proper Instrument would be. Mr. Snetzlear replied
that for about £6^ or £70 he thought he could promise to make them
an Instrument to give entire satisfaction to the Society, and also to
answer the size of the Room, and further, that he expected to be back
in the month of July next year to put up an organ for a Meeting
House in Leith, when he would endeavour to have the one for this
Lodge ready, if commissioned to make it. The members unanimously
gave their consent and approval, but delayed final instructions till next
Monthly Meeting. The Lodge was visited on this occasion by the
Right Hon. the Earl of Dundonald, Past Master of the Lodge of
Glasgow.
Next meeting took place on 2nd October, when the Chair was
occupied by the M.W. George Drummond, Past Grand Master, The
Lodge proceeded to consider the motion made at last meeting with
regard to the Organ, when the same was unanimously agreed to, and
Mr. Snetzlear be instructed to prepare and fit up an Organ for the
Lodge to the extent of Seventy Pounds or Seventy Guineas. The
M.W. the Master proposed that as Bro. Robertson, the Treasurer, was
to set out for London the next day, he be instructed to make a
bargain with Mr. Snetzlear agreeably to the meaning and intention of
the Lodge. A Committee was thereupon appointed to draw up instruc-
tions, and to call to their assistance gentlemen skilled in music and
the construction of Organs, in order to state the terms upon which the
Organ is to be commissioned, and this to be done without loss of
time, with full powers to the Committee which will be binding upon
the Lodge. Brother Pescatore, Organist from the Lodge of St,
®rgan ^ptctalls oxitxti from |Donlion. 8i
John's, Portsmouth, was then admitted a member, and his dues
dispensed with, " in regard he is to be Organist to the Society, how
soon the above Organ can be got from London." The Most W.
Bro. Lieut.-Colonel Oughton, P.G.M., from Minorca and the Lodges
there, was present this evening, besides numerous other visitors. At
the following meeting on 6th November, the Lodge, "taking into
consideration how much the Lodge-room is in dis-repair, and at
present in need of painting in the Walls have thought proper to order
the same to be done . . . recommended the Messrs. Norrie to
begin that work, and complete the same in such neat and genteel
manner as they shall think reasonable, and without loss of time."
The following statement of the night's transactions recorded after the
meeting of 1 3th of this month, serves as a fair example of the accounts
made up at each meeting : — Dues paid by 3 Intrants, . £'3166
Dues of 8 Fellow Crafts, . 200
Dues of Seven Masters, . 2 12 6
Collected from ye Br"- present, 016 o
£9 5
By Officers dues for 4 Intrants omitted
at last Meeting to be paid him, . ;f o 4 o
By 3 Intrants this night, . . . 039
By Passing and Raising this night, . 076 0153
Balance, ;£^8 9 9
Sir William Dunbar of Hempriggs, Baronet, was admitted at next
meeting on 20th November, and on 4th December the Lodge was
visited by the M.W. James Master of Forbes, Grand Master, George
Drummond, P.G.M., George Frazef, Sub. G.M., the Wardens, and
other officers of Grand Lodge, and many other visiting Brethren.
Appended is fac-simile of G.M.'s signature.
%.
•f^7^_^ ^^.
II
82 (?i:i)e (iTanongate fliltnmning llobge, ^o. 2.
The M.W. the Grand Master, The M.W. Bro. Lt.-Col. Oughton, and
Charles Eccles, Esq., of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, were upon their
own desire admitted members of this Lodge, and their healths drunk
upon this occasion. The Festival; of St. John the Evangelist took
place on 27th inst, when the Lodge was again visited by the Grand
Master. He declined, however, to take the Chair. A letter anent the
organ was read from Snetzlear, London, at the meeting of sth March,
and the Committee instructed to continue their correspondence with
him. On 7th May the Lodge was visited by Wm. St. Clair, Past
G.M., and on 24th June 1755, John Lumsdaine, Esq. of StraVithie, was
again elected R.W.M. At the meeting of 14th December, when
George Frazer, Sub. G.M., took the Chair, there were admitted the
Right Hon. The Lord Aberdour, James Hunter (Blair), Banker,
of Coutts & Co., and Bailie James Stuart. On 3rd December a
Grand Lodge visitation took place, when the Grand Master, Sholto
Charles, Lord Aberdour, attended with Geo. Frazer, Depute G.M.,
Richd. Tod, Sub. G.M., the Wardens, and other Grand Officers. A
fac-simile of Lord Aberdour's signature to the Minute is given
here : —
-dou/>^ ^ .
Thereafter Colonel John Young, Past Dep. G.M., and four others were
admitted members of the Lodge at their own desire. The meetings
onwards till 24th June next year were frequent and numerously
attended, and many new members were added. On 6th October
Lord Provost Drummond was again present, with Sir Wm. Dunbar,
Provincial G.M. for Inverness, the Grand Secretary, and other Grand
Lodge officers. It is also worthy of notice that the name of the
Lodge Canongate from Leith, on this date appears as " St. David's
Lodge " [formerly CanOngate from Leith], under which title it still
(STrgart' get' tfjj in tlje M-tat ©nb of tlje |^olige=rooin." ^3'
remains. On 29th November, the R.W. George Fraze'r, D.G.M.,'
proposed "that Bro. Sir Alexander Dick of Priestfielc^, Bart., from'
the Lodge at Rome, should be admitted a member, he havings-
requested Bro. Frazer to ask that favour," . . . and he was
accordingly admitted, and paid the usual dues. Bro. Andrew Frazer,
from Inverary Lodge, was likewise admitted a member, but the Lodge
refused to take any dues on account of the many important services
done to the Craft by his father the R.W.D.G. Master.
The Grand Master, Lord Aberdour, with all the Grand Officers and
Stewards; attended the meeting on ist December. Septimus Filius
Nibbs and Thos. Bullfinch were admitted members, and on 2nd
February, Bro. Dun from the Operative Lodge was paid Ss. in charity.
At the meeting of 2nd March the Right Hon. Bro. David, Earl of
Leven, from St. David's, was admitted a member of this Lodge, and
on 24th June David Ross of Inverchasely, Esq., was elected R.W.
Master. After the other officers were elected, a Deputation was sent to
Mary's Chapel, they being met this night. Amongst others admitted
on 6th July was Sir John Home of Renton, Baronet. The R.W.
informed the Lodge that the organ which they had some time ago
commissioned, was now arrived at Leith, and therefore desired a
Committee should be appointed to take care of it . . . and Bro.
Jas. Fergus,* Architect, to make a plan and estimate of the nich for
placing the organ in the West end of the Lodge-room. They were also
recommended to proceed with all care and dispatch in setting up the
organ. The Minute of next meeting records that (3rd August) at an
occasional meeting of the members of this Lodge, held in the Lodge
of St. Giles (because they could not sit in this Lodge-room, the West
end being laid open at the time), a new member was admitted, and
that the Dep. and Sub. Grand Masters were present. The Committee
reported " that the Nich on the West end of the Lodge room was now
built and plaistered, but before the Organ could be set up to-morrow,
it would be necessary that the ornaments should be finished." . . .
* Architect of the Royal Exchange.
The R,W. also informed the Lodge that £^o had been remitted to
Mr. Snetzlear in part payment, and this was unanimously approved
of. On 14th November, no fewer than nine Brethren were raised,
including James Hunter, Banker, Mons. Louis Cauvin, French
Teacher, and John Scott of Craigetitinnie ; and at next meeting, on
the 2 1st, The Hon. Hugh Frazer of Lovat was admitted a member,
and a list of eighty names drawn up and recorded in Grand Lodge
books. On the 24th of the month, four initiations took place,
amongst whom was James Burnet of Monboddo, Esq., Advocate
(Lorde Mo,nboddo).
At the first meeting in 1758, on 4th January, the Lodge was visited
by the following, who sign the Minute along with others, viz., The
Right Hon. Alexander, Earl of Galloway, Grand Master, the
Grand Wardens, and other officers of the Grand Lodge. Visits were
also received from Brethren from other Lodges, " particularly the Right
Hon. The Earl of Kelly, Master of St. Giles." On 2nd February
the Treasurer was ordered to remit a further payment of ;£^20 to Mr.
Snetzlear on account of the Organ, and there was admitted as a
member "Bro. Norman M'LQod of M'Leod, Esq., from Inverness
Lodge." After the meeting of 19th April the Lodge did not meet till
7th June, in respect of the Brethren being mostly in the country, and
then it was intimated that next meeting would take place on 24th inst.,
" the officers to be exact in distributing Billets ' to the brethren for
attending that high festival." On this date, the regular officers were
elected, with (in his absence) Walter Stewart of Stewarthall, Esq.,
Advocate, as > R.W, Master, though only an apprentice at the time.
At next meeting, on 4th July, the " Master Elect was regularly passed
F.C. and raised to the degree of M.M., took the Chair as Master of
the Lodge, and gave his oath de fidelV In the Minute of ist
November, Tyler is mentioned for the first time. At a meeting of
Brethren of this Lodge held in the Lodge of Edinburgh St. Giles on
29th November, a gentleman was admitted as a member of Canongate
Kilwinning ; and on 6th December the most Worshipful and Right
Hon. Alexander, Earl of Galloway, Grand Master of Scotland, and
famtiEi |So$in)ell of |ittcl)tt(leck, xnb ^ir Sit. fotbt^, |iart. 85
other Grand Office-bearers again visited the Lodge, " The R.W. left
the Chair, and introduced the M.W. into it with all the solemnities."
Another visit was paid by the Earl of Galloway, Grand Master, on
4th April 1759, when Alex. M'Donnell, Esq. of Glengarry, was
admitted a mason, and the Secretary ordered to pay 5s. to a
distressed " Journeyman " mason. At the Annual Meeting on 24th
June, Walter "Stewart was re-elected R.W. Master, Dr. John Boswell
Depute Master, and other officers as recorded, and it was resolved that
in future the monthly meetings be held on the second Tuesday instead
of the first Wednesday of each month. The next meeting took place
on loth July, when Dr. Boswell and M'Donnell of Glengarry were
raised to the degree of M.M., and during the latter part of the
meeting the former took the Chair. On 14th August the celebrated
James Boswell, younger of Auchinleck, the friend and Biographer of
Johnson, was admitted a mason and member of the Lodge. He was
Junior Warden in 1761 ; Depute Master in 1767- 1768 ; and R.W.
Master 1773 to 1775.
At the meeting on 1 3th November the following Dues were paid
by new members, viz. : — 12 Entrants at 2Ss. 6d., £lS,6s. ; 4 Passed
at 5s., £1 ; 4 Raised at 7s. 6d., ;^i, los. ; and 2 Assumed at 5s.,
los. ; Collected for the night, £i, 15s. 6d., in all ;f22, is. 6d. On
1 6th November Sir Wm. Forbes, of Messrs. Coutts & Co., Bankers
and Merchants in Edinburgh, was entered and admitted a mason and
member of the Lodge. He was Junior Warden in 1761, Senior from
1761 to 1764, and Grand Master Mason of Scotland in 1776-77.
It was reported on nth December, that on 23rd ult.. Sir William
Forbes was passed and raised, and that on 27th Simon Frazer of
Ford, and Evan Cameron, younger of Fassifern, were entered
apprentices, and they having paid all dues, this was confirmed and
ordered to be recorded. Another Grand Lodge visitation took place
on nth February 1760, headed by the Earl of Leven, Grand Master,
and "the R.W. being himself Senior Grand Warden, appointed
Brother Lumsdaine to act for him pv tetnpore" And at the
succeeding meeting the Treasurer was ordered to pay " a Brother of
86 M\)t €&\\on%&tt ^tltuinning f^obge, fio. 2.
the Lodge pf Perth from Scoon, One Guinea, to assist him in his
present distress." The last Minute recorded in the volume under
review is dated loth June, and is signed by Dr. John Boswell, D.M.,
Dr. James Lind, S.W., and Sir William Forbes, J.W. p.t. ; and the
Secretary adds^"24th June 1760. This Book is concluded and duly
closed, the Minute of this night's Election being insert, in a new book
begun of this date."
CHAPTER VII.
'I'^^^ ENTION has already been made of some of the curious
(Iff customs prevalent last century, such for instance as
' the granting of a Charter in Canongate Kilwinning
Lodge, at their monthly meeting in 1752, to constitute a Lodge at
Aleppo. This step seems to have been promoted by Alexander, brother
of Lord Provost George Drummond, as on 24th June 1760, "The
R.W. having expressed his grateful sense of the honour conferred on
him ... for these last two years past. Desired leave to resign
that office, and having accordingly Declared the chair vacant, he pro-
posed for his successor our R.W. Brother Alexander Drummond, Esq.,
late His Majesty's Consul at Aleppo." Having been absent on this
date. Brother Drummond attended on 1 2th August, when he " gave
his oath de fideli, and took the Chair with the usual solemnities."
All the sister Lodges were present on this occasion, and the Junior
Warden's Chair was occupied by Sir William Forbes of Pitsligo,
Baronet. At a succeeding meeting "The Honb''- Lieut. William
Murray, Esq., took the Chair," when Bro. Dr. Cairnie was authorized
to give a distressed brother los., and to pay the dues of eighty
members to the Grand Lodge.
The uniformity of working in Lodges engaged the attention of
prominent members of the Craft at this period, and a Committee was
formed under the following circumstances : —
" loth February 1761. — The R.W. observed that as he had been
abroad for severall years till of late, so he had not the pleasure of
being in any of the Lodges in Scotland for a considerable time, and
88 ^\)t Cattongate p,tltDtnntng %ob^t, fLo. 2.
now after visiting sundry Lodges in this town and neighbourhood, he
finds that there are a good many alterations in the manners of the
Brethren, with respect to certain particular forms. That as he would
wish a, uniformity should subsist among the Lodges he proposed a
Committee should be named to consider of these things, and also of
the Funds, in order to make such regulations as shall be thought
proper. The Brethren unanimously approved of the motion, and
accordingly a Committee was named, to consist of the officers of
the Lodge, three Past Masters, two Past Treasurers, the Grand
Secretary, and the Grand Chaplain. To whom it was recommended
to consider these matters, and report to their first meeting, to be held
on Wednesday the i8th current, at 6 o'clock in the evening, in this
Lpdge. There was a proposal laid before the Lodge from the Lodge
of Aberdeen, which was read and referred to the said Committee."
. . . It would thus appear that the matter of uniformity of work-
ing in Lodges was taken up by the Aberdeen Brethren, who wished
to act in conjunction with the Craft in Edinburgh. The next
reference to this question is found in the Minute of 14th April, when
" It was recomniended to the members of Committee, of 10th
February last, to meet upon Friday next at the Lodge, at 6 o'clock
in the evening, and then to take under their consideration the matter
there remitted to them." On 9th June, arrangements having been
made for holding the Festival of St. John the Baptist, " The R.W.
further observed that it will be very proper to have the business
finished which was recommended to the Committee appointed the
loth February, and therefore appointed the Committee to meet this
day se'night at 7 o'clock in Bro. Alexander's, and requested that if
any three or more meet they will prepare the business so as to make
a Report to the first meeting of the Lodge after the Election, and for
that purpose that they may adJ9urn themselves from time to time as
they think fit." It is to be regretted, that so far as the Lodge records
show, no Report from this Committee appear to be minuted on the
subject of uniformity, though an elaborate one, regarding the Lodge
funds and other matters, is engrossed on 9th February 1762,
ISmefit ^lag in ti)e ([Tanongate ^Ijeatct. 89
On nth March 1 76 1, Bro, Richard Tod, S.G.M., and Master of
Leith Lodge, presided, and reported having entered in his own Lodge
Mr. James Stewart, Writer in Edinburgh, as a member of Canongate
Kilwinning. This was approved of, and he was " accordingly ordered
to be recorded as a brother and member of this Lodge." Simileir
entries — and the custom was not confined to any Lodge in particular
— occurred during last and beginning of the present century. It is
noteworthy, too, that, during last century especially, no extraordinary
event happened without the presence of the Craft in some capacity.
In April, " a Benefit play for the use of the poor of the Canongate "
was to be performed, and it was requested that "all the brethren
would encourage this charitable act of the manager of the Theatre "
in every way possible. A galaxy of celebrated actors belonged to
the Lodge at this period. St. Andrew's Festival was celebrated on
30th November, and on 4th December, " as the Senior Warden of the
Lodge had gone abroad. Sir Wm. Forbes was appointed in his stead,
and Brother James Boswell elected Junior Warden, and installed
with the usual solemnities." Bro. Robertson, goldsmith, was ordered
to " make a piece of plate, value about £^10 or ;^I2 Stg., to be given
to Bro. Macpherson, in testimony of the sense all the Brethren have of
the services he has done the Lodge." Brother Macpherson was
" Musician " to the Lodge, and joined as far back as 1747. The
R.W. Master of St. David's Lodge, the Earl of Levcn, with a deputa-
tion, was present on St. John the Evangelist's Day, and on 26th
April 1762 a Grand Lodge visitation took place, headed by the
Right Hon. Charles, Earl of Elgin and Kincardine, G.M., and the
other officials of Grand Lodge. Their Minute concludes thus : — " This
Lodge being attended with a numerous company, was, after the usual
Toasts, Solemnities, and an Harmonious Entertainment, Dissolved
in due form." Nine of the then existing Edinburgh Lodges were
represented on this occasion, including the " Thistle" Lodge, now
dormant, and "St. Giles," originally Vernon Kilwinning, which in
1779 merged in Canongate Kilwinning. On 24th June 1762, George
Frazer was for the third time elected Master, and on 14th December
go (iflje danongate ^iltDinning l^otlje, |lo. 2.
a Minute is recorded containing an account of the high status which
Canongate Kilwinrting has always occupied in the Grand Lodge
Festivals.
"The R.W.M. reported that on St. Andrew's Day last, being told
it would be esteemed a particular favour if this Lodge would for that
time yield the place due to their Rank in the Assembly (where the
Grand feast was to be held) to some of the young Lodges, who never
had and could not otherwise- have an opportunity of seeing the
solemnities usual at that solemnity. And at the same time being
fully persuaded the members of this Lodge would always agree
to any good-natured proposal, he ordered an entertainment proper
for the occasion to be provided by the Stewards at the Lodge.. To
which, after attending the M.W. Grand Master to the entry of the
Assembly Hall, he marched with his Brethren, and were visited by
the R.W. Substitute G.M., Chaplain, Treasurer, and Clerk, who in the
Grand Master's name thanked this Lodge for their Example of Con-
descension in favour of the young Lodges. A proper return was
made to this Deputation, and after the Lodge was closed, the R.W.M.
went to the Assembly Hall, attended by a large number of the
members, and joined with the Brethren there in finishing the business
of the night like Masons. His conduct was entirely approven by the
Lodge."
At the next meeting, "Brother Alexander M'Lellan from the
Primitive Lodge of the Conquered Caribbee Islands," and another
Brother " from No. 4 in the East Indies," were received as honorary
members ; " George Warrander of Bruntsfield, Junr.," and other ten
gentlemen, were initiated. On St. John the Baptist's Day 1764, The
Right Hon. George Drummond, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, was
elected R.W. Master, " and installed accordingly." The following is
a fac-simile of 'his signature as recorded in this Minute. George
Sinclair of Ulbster, Esq., was on this occasion assumed an honorary
member.
3" 3oI)it OTl)iteforb, |Sart., anb dfoi-ge 8tl) €ail of Pal^otsiie. 91
" Charles Cochrane, Esq., son to the Earl of Dundonald," was
entered an apprentice on loth July, and early in 1765 it is recorded
that the following gentlemen were admitted, viz., Major James
Callander, Jun., of Craigforth, Captain John M'Dowall pf Woolmet,
and Sir John Whiteford, Baronet. In April, amongst other distin-
guished Entered Apprentices, appears the name of the Right Hon.
Lord Robert Kerr, and later on that of Duncan M'Donnel of Glen-
garry. On 4th December the Minute says : . . . " The Lodge
along with many others attended the Grand Master for Scotland to
the Assembly Hall, where that Great Day was solemnised with that
Harmony, Unanimity, and decent mirth, which have ever been the
distinguishing marks of Free Masons." . , . The Lodge having
returned to St. John's Chapel, the Minute concludes : — " Last of all.
The Most Worshipful the Hon. Alexander Gordon, D.G.M. for Scot-
land, was assumed a member of this Lodge. But previous to this,
Capt. Robert Dalrymple was made a mason and entered an appren-
tice of this Lodge and paid the ordinary fees."
On New Year's Day 1766, the Grand Master, James Stewart,
Lord Provost of Edinburgh, attended by the proper officials, visited
the Lodge. James Townsend Oswald, Esq., ancestor of the present
Captain James Townsend Oswald of Dunnikier, Fifeshire, was
admitted on 5th February. A guinea was ordered to be granted to a
brother who represented " his melancholy situation," and entries of
this nature constantly occur in the Minutes. On 2nd July "a Com-
mittee was appointed to treat with the Proprietrix for a piece of
ground adjacent to, and on the east of the Lodge, about the purchase
of it," and report to the meeting on the first Wednesday of August.
No record of a meeting, however, appears before ist October, but,
as here a full page in the Minute Book has been torn out, it is possible
that a note of the transaction was recorded. George 8th Earl of
Dalhousie was entered, passed, and raised on 29th November, and on
3rd December his lordship is referred to as visiting the Lodge in the
capacity of "Grand Master Elect." On 27th December it was
intimated that the Lodge adjourned till the 7th of January next,
02 Sl)e elanongate ^iltDinntng flolige, ^o. 2.
which "is appointed to be a funeral meeting in Honour of the
rnemory of George Drummond, Esq., late Master of this Lodge."
Accordingly the Minute of the latter date records that —
"This night being appointed for holding a Funeral meeting in
honour of the memory of Geo. Drummond, Esq., once Grand Master
for Scotland, and late Master of this Lodge, George Frazer, once
Master of the Lodge, took the Chair. . . . The Brethren
endeavoured to ,do all the honour in their power to the Memory of
so great a man, so good a Mason, and so worthy a Master, by per-
forming many pieces of musick finely adapted for the occasion, and
preserving the greatest harmony and ■ decorum: Every Brother
seemed too, to vie with one another in showing their regard for their
deceast Leader, and discharging their duty on this mournful occasion,
either as Musicians or as Masons." ' The records of St. David's Lodge
contain a poetical reference to the above circumstance.
The following extract from the Minute of 4th February will be read
with interest : — " The R.W. Master represented that it would be proper
and becoming that the Lodge should contribute out of their Funds
towards the support of the Charity Workhouse of Edinburgh, for the
benefit whereof th^re is at present a voluntary publick contribution in
the City, and it was at the same time proposed by Mr. Alison that
Ten Guineas should be allowed by the Lodge, for that purpose, which
proposal was unanimously agreed to by the Brethren, and Mr. Mercer
the Treasurer was appointed to pay the above sum. Thereafter Bro.
Verchild, Master of the' Lodge of Si. Luke, Bro. Stewart, Master of
The Thistle, and Bro. Peacock, Master of St. James' Edinr., were
assumed Honorary Members of this Lodge ; and the Lodge having
considered the case of a Distressed Brother . . . the Treasurer
was directed to give the Supplicant half a guinea." A like amount
was granted to " an Operative Mason in distress." At the following
meeting on 4th March, it is minuted that "The claim of the
Children of Richard Cooper, deceast, was remitted by the Committee
to Bro. Wm. Miln and Bro, Chas. Mack, and their conduct {i.e., the
conduct of the Committee) is approven of by the Members of this
^nilbtng t\}t %obQt of palkeiti). 93
Lodge, and this approbation is ordered to be recorded." On ist
April it is stated that " The Honble. John Cochran, son to the Earl
of Dundonald, was entered apprentice, at a meeting held last night."
On 6th May it was ordered that " the Treasurer should pay into the
Master of the Grand Stewards what is due by this Lodge on account
of the last Annual Feast." At the Annual Meeting on 24th June,
Bro. Alison was re-elected R.W.M., and James Boswell, who occupied
the Chair, was elected Depute Master.
It should be noted that the Lodge-room at this period was some-
times used for other purposes than that of Masonry, and on the above
date it was resolved that "during the pleasure of the Lodge" Mr.
Gibson should have the use of it for teaching music. Brother Robert
Groat, S.G.W. of England, was assumed a member. On ist July,
" The Right Hon. Thomas, Lord Drummond, and Alexander Aber-
crombie. Advocate," were entered Apprentices, and £2, 2s. was voted
towards defraying the expense of building the Lodge of Dalkeith.
The Right Hon. Lord Algernon Percy, and other fifteen entries, were
reported on 2nd December as having taken place at special meetings.
It was also reported, that to accommodate the younger Lodges, this
Lodge celebrated St. Andrew's Festival in St. John's Chapel, and the
collection for that evening amounted to £^0, los. 6d. On 6th January
1768, the Earl of Dalhousie, Grand Master, accompanied in due form,
visited the Lodge. It may be mentioned that Lord Dalhousie signed
various Minutes after his initiation as an acting office-bearer, and
annexed is a fac-simile of his signature on this date.
C^a/lt^'f-^^'
On 2nd March it tvas " found necessary to have the roof of the
Lodge taken off, and some other reparations made, therefore no
meeting would take place here for some time." If any meetings were
held prior to 24th June, no record has been preserved of them, but on
94 ^h^ €A\xonQ&U ^.tltninntng |Dot>gc, fio. 2.
this date " the Lodge being roofed but not fully repaired, the Brethren,
after electing the officers of the Lodge, adjourned to a more proper
place for celebrating the festival, and receiving the congratulations
of other Lodges." Lord Bimjing, and several others, were entered
apprentices on 7th December, and the dues, &c., on that occasion
amounted to ;£^2i. This nobleman acted as Depute Master, and
signed the Minute as such on 4th January 1769.
Another Grand Lodge visitation took place on 7th December,
headed by Lt.-Geh. Adolphus Oughton, when it was reported that at
occasional meetings seventeen entries had been made. Among them
appears the name of " The Hon. Colonel William Napier of the Royal
Scots Greys," afterwards Lord Napier, father of Francis, Lord Napier,
who was initiated in Canongate Kilwinning on 2nd March 1775,
There is also recorded the large sum of £2,7, 6s. 6d., as dues, &c., for
this evening. Nevertheless the income-lhus derived fell short of the
expenditure, which must have been very great, as set forth in the
following extract from the Minute of 13th December. "Thereafter
the R.W. Master having represented to the Lodge That by the late
Reparations of the same. The Lodge had fallen considerably in
arrears. And without the assistance of The Brethren could not
possibly be soon in a Situation to Pay off the Tradesmen's Accounts
for these Reparations. Therefore Proposed That to free the Lodge
of that Embarrassment a Subscription should be opened for the
Brethren of this Lodge to Subscribe what sum they shall respectively
think fit to Advance for the above purpose. These sums to be again
Repaid to these Subscribers so soon as the Funds of the Lodge can
afford it."
On the 1 2th of March a very interesting ceremony took place-
that of instituting a Military Lodge — now dormant ; but for many
years it occupied a flourishing position. The entire Minute is here
transcribed.
|Lo&ge of ^t. ^nbrero's Jloijal ^rt|) in tl)e ^toU ^rtgs. 95
" Lodge of St, Andrew's Royal Arch in the Scots Greys or
Royal Regiment of North British Dragoons held in the Lodge Room
of Canongate Kilwinning, the twelfth day of March 1770."
"In consequence of an application made to the Grand Lodge of
Scotland on Tuesday last, the Sixth instant, by the Honourable
Colonel William Napier in name of himself and several other Gentle-
men in the above Regiment, Craving to have a Charter of Constitu-
tion and Erection under their Authority when the same was ordered.
And this day appointed by the Grand Lodge to meet with the several
Brethren to deliver them their Charter, and Consecrate their Lodge
THE GRAND LODGE, being duly met and constituted by the
Most Worshipful, His Excellency General Oughton, The
Grand Master, and several other officers of the Grand Lodge.
His Excellency, after a most suitable Lecture on Wisdom Strength
and Beauty of the Royal Craft, to Colonel Napier, whom he received
as Master of the Lodge, He delivered him their Charter, and received
Captain Heron as Depute Master, Sir John Nisbet, Senior, and John
Nisbet, Esquire, for Junior Wardens, John Christie, Esq., for Treasurer,
and James Colquhoun, Esquire, for Secretary. When after the same,
their Lodge was Consecrated by Solemn Prayer, under the Stile and
Title of the St. Andrew's Royal Arch in the Scots Greys or
Royal North British Dragoons. And the Evening was con-
cluded with that mirth and harmony known among the Brethren."
(Signed) Jas. Adol^- Oughton, G.M., Andrew Alison, D.G.M., John
Ross, S.G.M., Jo. Cairnie, S.G.W., Andrew Wood, J.G.W., Wm.
Napier, Mr. Basil Heron, D.M., John Nisbet, S.W., John Nisbet, J.W.,
Alex. Dougall, G. Secy., and David Bait, G. Clerk,
On St. John's Day, mid-summer, it was reported that the account
contracted for Wright work in connection with the Lodge " repara-
tions" amounted to ;^ 203, 12s. 5d. stg., and their still remained £^100
of this sum unpaid. It was agreed to liquidate this debt by " partial
payments as the Lodge shall be in Cash, with interest, at the times of
payment respectively." The Master and " all the members of a band
of music " were entered on 2nd August free of charge. This practice
96 ^l)e Clainoitgate l^tltoinninig %db%t, fio. 2.
of receiving military bands gratis was a common one, even during
the first half of the present century, but the custom is now contrary to
the Laws and Constitution of Grand Lodge. On 6th December,
"The Hon. Colonel Wm. Napier, acting R.W.M., Alex. Allan, of
London, and John Wood from our' Mother Lodge of Kilwinning
were Pass'd and Raised & p'^- the dues." The Grand Master, Lt.-
Gen. Oughton, presided on 7th February 1 771, and initiated amongst
others Sir Alexander Murray of Balmano, and John Sinclair ot
Ulbster, Esq. On 12th August, a funeral Lodge was held in
" memory of the deceast Alexander Alison, Esq., late Master of this
Lodge, and Substitute Grand Master of Scotland." The Grand
Master took the chair and delivered "a suitable address," . . .
" several solemti pieces of musick were performed proper andsuitable to
the mournful occasion of this meeting, in which every Member testified
the deepest sense of the loss they have sustained in the death of their
worthy Brother." It is recorded that Canongate Kilwinning again
returned to St. John's Chapel on St. Andrew's Day, there having been
insufficient accommodation for all the Lodges in "Parliament House,"
where the election of the Grand Master took place. Sir James
Murray of Hillhead, and Robert Sinclair of Scotscalder, Esq., were
initiated on 6th February 1772, and a Grand Lodge visitation took
place on Sth March, headed by the Grand Master, The Earl of
Dumfries, and accompanied by two Past Grand Masters, namely, the
Earl of Leven, and Lt.-Gen. Oughton "and many other brethren."
The Grand Master delivered an " Elegant speech to the Brethren."
The Minute concludes thus : — " So after spending the evening with
that cheerfulness and mirth, the same was concluded with that
Decency and Decorum known among the Brethren."
J^^^i^^W^-i^^ ^C^^^TZ.
As the Tyler was indi3posed, the Treasurer was ordered to pay his
wife one guinea, and on the representation of Brother Sir 'William
Ifitnttte tontten bg ISoisniell of ^ncIjinUch. 97
Forbes, assistance from the funds was granted to an indigent brother.
On 15th July, the Tyler "craved an increase to his allowance for his
trouble in dispensing the Circulatory Letters," and the Committee
decided that the work be divided between the two Tylers — Wm.
Dewar and Thomas Cuthbertson — for which " each of them are to
have the allowance of two shillings and sixpence stg. monthly ; " and
on 5th August it was unanimously resolved " that the Lodge should
be set for no purpose whatever after Whitsunday, One thousand seven
hundred and seventy-four." The following quaint Minute of 7th
April is transcribed in full : — " The Lodge met, and having passed
the Evening in convivial Hilarity as is the consentude of the Brethren
they adjourned, by the desire of the Right Worshipful, their further
occurrence till the first Thursday of May." The Minute immediately
succeeding that of the 24th June 1774, when James Boswell "of
Auchinleck * was elected Master of the Lodge for the second time,
is written and signed by himself It is dated 7th July, and says : —
" St. John's Lodge, The Lodge having met, although there were very
few brethren present, for which, those who were absent should be
reprimanded, the evening was passed in social glee, every brother
having sung, though not as a precedent, and the Lodge was adjourned
to the first Thursday of August next."
The Most Worshipful David Dalrymple, Grand Master, made a
Grand Lodge visitation on 2nd February 1775, when he "expressed
his highest satisfaction with the conduct of this Lodge, and in a
* In 1592 a man who was tried and condemned at Edinburgh for witch-
craft, was also accused of raising the devil at the Laird of Auchinleck's
dwelling-place in the Canongate.
13
gS ®I)e elanonsate ^.tltoittning %oii^e, fio. 2.
particular manner as he had been Initiated in the principles of
masonry within this Lodge." . . .
When Lord Napier was admitted on 2nd March, the treasurer
reported that an annuity of one pound five shillings, which had been
paid annually to the widow of the late Tyler, was now to be discon-
tinued. On 7th December "Mr. Dougal Stewart, Professor of
Mathematics in the College of Edinburgh," was entered, apprentice,
and also on ist February following "The Right Hon. Lord
Dunglass."
It was represented to the meeting of 4th July, by Bro. James Hay,
Senior Warden, that inconvenience to the members and much detri-
ment to the Funds of the Lodge arose from the present mode of
making Entries at occasional meetings. In order, therefore, to prevent
any possibility of Intrants escaping payment, as well as to prevent
improper persons from being admitted in this Lodge, it was agreed
that no Entry should be made unless one of the Committee was
present, that a Book for this purpose should be kept and signe(| by
the Brother who acted as Master pro tern., and also by two of the
Brethren as Wardens, and which should be transferred each Monthly
Meeting to the regular Minute Book of the Lodge. The Tyler was
therefore instructed to refuse admittance " to, any of the Brethren
qnless one of the Annual Committee was present."
And on St. Andrew's Day, finding " it impossible that every Lodge
could.be accommodated in the Assembly Hall, that of Canongate
Kilwinning was obliged to resort to their own Qhapel, where they
expressed in the most sincere manner their approbation. of the choice
|t Jfiastersl' Jftfleettng : "|imti«mfnt anb Instmttton." 99
the Fraternity had made in selecting the Most Worshipfull Sir
WiHiam Forbes, Bart., as Grand Master."
A Masters' meeting was held on 2nd December, and the Minute
recording the proceedings is too quaint to be passed over : —
" A meeting of Master Masons was this Evening held in the Lodge,
at which were present several Masters of the different Lodges in this
City and Neighbourhood. All the Members of our Ancient Fraternity
contributed to the general Joy of the Evening, and much Amusement
and Instruction were reaped from the various Questions and Answers
concerning the Craft from the respective Brethren present. After
having passed several hours in this social- and agreeable Manner, the
Lodge was then solemnly closed as usual." Amongst those present
were Dr. Nathaniel Spens, Substitute G.M., and the Junior Grand
Warden.
At the earliest opportunity the Grand Master visited his Mother
Lodge in his official Capacity, for on 4th December the Minute
records that " This day the Lodge of Canongate Kilwinning was visited
by the Most Worshipful Sir William Forbes, Bart., G.M., James
Boswell, Dep. G.M., Dr. Nathaniel Spens, Sub. G.M., the Wardens,
Secy., Chaplain, and G. Clerk, when the Grand Master in a most
Excellent Charge to the Brethren, Required their careful attention to
all the Duties of Masonry, as the most proper means of keeping it
alive in its genuine spirit and purity."
On 24th January, died William St. Clair of Rosslyn, Past Grand
Master, aged 78 years. The following is a passage from Sir William
Forbes' address to the Grand Lodge on St. Clair's death : —
" The uncertainty of life is of all reflections the most obvious ; yet
though the most important, it is unhappily too often the most
100 SI)e fllaivoitgate l&ilTOmning %ob^e, fLo. 2.
neglected. What a damp would come over our spirits, what agita-
tion would be raised even in this Assembly, were the book of fate to
be unrolled to our view! If Providence should permit us to penetrate
this moment into futurity, and to foresee the fate of ourselves and
others only to the end of the present year, some of us, who, perhaps,
suppose death to be at a great distance, would see him already at the
door. Some -who in full security are dreaming of a long course of
years yet to come, would find that they have already entered on their
last ; and that before it come to a close, they, like our departed
brother, shall be mingled with the dust. A great part of this
Assembly, by the course of nature, will probably survive a little
longer ; but it is morally certain that some of us before the sun has
made another annual revolution, will be removed hence to that un-
changeable state, where our doom will be fixed for ever. And
although Heaven has wrapped in impenetrable darkness who
they are that shall pass through the vale of the shadow of death
during that short period, in order that we may all live in a state of
habitual preparation, yet who can have the presumption to say that
he himself shall not be the first to visit
' That undiscover'd country,
From whose bourne no traveller returns '? "
Alexander Nasmyth, Artist, was Entered on Sth February this year."
New Year's Day 1778 being the date of the first Monthly Meeting,
it was reported that amongst others, the Right Hon. George Lord
Haddo was initiated in this Lodge, and the following is the Minute of
Sth February : — " The Lodge having mett according to their former
adjournment, with several other Jovial, Social, and Friendly toasts, a
Cup of Congratulation having been drunk to the R.W. Master, on his
late Entry into the Matrimonial State, the Lodge was closed with
Harmony & Pleasure." On 24th June, " Doctor Nathaniel Spens,
Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians," was elected R.W.M.
Enton xnitl) t\}t ^abtitngton %,oi>^t.
On 2nd December he took up his position as S.G.M., on the occasion
of a Grand Lodge visitation headed by " The Most Noble John, Duke
of Athole, Grand Master Mason of Scotland." The autographs of
each are appended to the Minute, and here is a fac-simile of that of
the Grand Master.
During the evening fifteen initiations took place, including Louis
Cauvin, French Teacher. It was here that Burns the poet formed the
acquaintance of that gentleman, from whom he received lessons in the
French language thrice a week, during a course of three months. On
3rd February 1779, "Wm. Cullen, Esq. of Parkhead, was admitted
. . . the Lodge was immediately clos'd on account of some
disturbance in the Town."
A Union on certain conditions was agreed upon at this time,
between the Haddington Lodge and Canongate Kilwinning, resulting
in the formation of One Associate Lodge. The particulars are as
follows : —
On 3rd March, Francis Charteris, jun., of Amisfield, S.M. of Had-
dington Lodge, and other three members of said Lodge, were assumed
members of Canongate Kilwinning.
" The Right Worshipful represented to the Lodge that it had been
proposed by the Brethren of the Haddington Lodge (ist) That the
Lodges of Canongate Kilwinning, Edinr., and of Haddington, should
reciprocally assume the whole Brethren of the said two Lodges in
such manner as to form one associate Lodge ; (2nd) That in all public
processions at Edinburgh, the Haddington Brethren should walk as
members of the Canongate Kilwinning, and on similar occasions at
2CI)c danongate ^ilrotnning l^obge, ^o. 2.
Haddington, the Brethren of Canongate Kilwinning should walk as
members of the Haddington Lodge ; (3rd) That in every other
respect the two Lodges should remain perfectly independent of each
other, and masters of their own funds ; (4th) That no member of
either Lodge should have any voice in the Election of Office-bearers,
or in any other thing that concerns the particular administration of
the other Lodge ; (Sth) That neither of the Lodges should be bound
to receive any Brother as a member of the other Lodge at any publick
procession, either at Edinburgh or Haddington, unless he is vouched
by a Brother, and be such, or has a Certificate thereof from one of
the present Office-bearers in his Mother Lodge.
" The Lodge having taken the foregoing proposal under their con-
sideration, they appoint the present officers. Brother Cairnie, Brother
Frazer, and Brother Brown as a Committee, to consider the same, to
correspond with the Haddington Lodge on the subject, and to report
the result of their deliberations to the next Monthly Meeting.
(Signed) NATH^- SPENS, M.
THOMAS HAY, D.M.
DAVID STEUART, 6'. W.
WILL. BALDERSTON,/.fr.
St. John's Chappel,
loi/i March 1779.
" The Committee above named having met, they unanimously
approve of the proposals made by the Haddington Lodge, which were
remitted to their consideration by last Monthly Meeting, and they
request the Right Worshipful Master to transmit a copy of this
Minute to the Haddington Lodge, in order that an act may be
entered in the Books of each Lodge to the above effect (Signed, as
above)."
7th April. "The Lodge met this evening, and having considered
the Report made by the Committee appointed to correspond with
the Haddington Lodge, they hereby approve of the same in every
respect, and the Right Worshipful Master is requested to communicate
donjttnttion rottlj ^t. (Stltis, formerls Vernon mdoinnittg l^obgt. 103
the substance of this Minute to the Right Worshipful Master and
Lodge of Haddington at his first convenience." . . .
On 5th May, "The Right Worshipful Master, in obedience to the
last Minute, communicated the substance of same, together with
Report that preceded it to the Right Worshipful Master of the
Lodge at Haddington, from which there was a Visitation in form,
and both Lodges cordially agree to their Union in the Terms
formerly mentioned."
His Highness Paul, Prince of Dashkov, was initiated on 13th May,
and passed and raised on the 20th of the same month, and in
November, Edinburgh St. Giles, formerly Vernon Kilwinning Lodge,
amalgamated with Canongate Kilwinning. The record of the trans-
action is as follows : —
"St. John's Chapel, 3rd Nov. 1779.
" The Lodge being constituted in due form, proceeded to the
admission of Peter Beaver, Esq., 25 Regt. of Foot, and John Wright,
Mercht, Edr.
" After which, the R'- W- M''- reported that some months ago the
Lodge of Edr. St. Giles had signified a wish to be incorporated with
this Lodge, that they had had several meetings with their Brethren,
and after having wrote a Circular letter to all the Members of the
Lodge of St. Giles Known to be in life in this Country, at last
meeting, finally resolved to adjust their funds, to pay in the Ballance
to the Treasurer of this Lodge, and to deposit their Jewels for
its use."
" The Members of this Lodge having considered this resolution and
wishing to show every mark of respect the Lodge of St. Giles so
justly deserves, and to promote the good of the Craft, unanimously
agreed to unite the two Lodges in order to be productive of harmony,
brotherly love, and good fellowship.
" The Brethren of Edinburgh St. Giles having attended, were received
most cordially, and the two Lodges are henceforth declared to be one
I04 M\)t eianongate ^tlroinning %ob^t, fLo. 2.
under the title of Canongate Kilwinning Lodge. In testimony of this
conjunction being equally agreeable to both Lodges, this Minute is
signed by the present officers of the Lodge, and by the Committee
appointed for that purpose at the last Meeting of Edinburgh St.
Giles."
It was customary at this period for each Lodge to elect annually a
Steward, to represent them at Grand Lodge.
On 1st December, " Brother CuUen informed the Lodge that last
night, during the Celebration of St. Andrew in the Assembly Hall,
Mr. Watson, late Grand Steward of this Lodge, had shown repeated
marks of disrespect to the then Right Worshipful Master and to the
whole Lodge, that he thought his behaviour unbecoming the character
of a Mason, and after having given a detail of the circumstances,
moved that the said James Watson be expelled from this Lodge for
ever, if he did not make a proper acknowledgement of his fault.
After hearing all parties, at great length above two hours, and the
said James Watson refusing to make any acknowledgement, the
Lodge were proceeding to pass a vote upon his conduct, when he
took off his cloathing and threw it down in the Lodge in the most
arrogant manner, and retired. The Lodge thereupon unanimously
expelled him, and ordered his name to be erased from their Books.
The Right Worshipfull Master and Masters of the different Lodges
who were present this night, and Witnesses to the said James
Watson's improper behaviour, proposed that an intimation of the
above resolution of the Lodge should be sent to all the Lodges
in Town, which was unanimously agreed to."
About this period the question of reducing the fees by Grand
Lodge was being discussed, for on 5 th April, " after having heard a
letter from the Lodge of Journeymen Masons of Edr. read, respecting
the lowering the dues of admission, .are unanimously of opinion that
the doing so would be attended with the worst consequences, and
therefore recommend it to the attention of their representatives in
the Grand Lodge to support the Complaint of the Journeymen
Masons," On sth May the usual annual examination of the
^tttl&mg of l^oilge Sioont of JfHot^et ^tlroinning. 105
Treasurer's accounts took place, and on 24th June 1780, the Honour-
able Henry Erskine, Advocate, was elected R.W. Master in succession
to Dr. Spens. On 2nd August, " the Lodge being duly constituted,
and the ordinary business ended. Brother Alexander Gardner,
Treasurer, of the late Lodge of St. Giles, paid to Bro. Mercer,
Treasurer of this Lodge, the sum of Twenty pounds Stg., being the
remainder of the funds of the Lodge of St. Giles, after payment of all
claims against that Lodge."
On 3rd January 1781, "The Committee appointed at last meeting
to consider the request of our Mother Lodge of Kilwinning, reported
that upon considering the state of the Lodge's Finances they thought
Five Pounds Sterling would be afforded towards defraying the
Expense of the Room they were then building (at Kilwinning), which
being declared to the Brethren by our R.W. Meister, was unanimously
agreed to." "Our R.W. Master then read a letter from the M.W.
the Right Honble. the Earl of Balcarras, Grand Master for Scotland,
informing the Brethren that the Play for the Fraternity was appointed
for Monday next, and their presence requested." On 6th June, " The
Business being finished, the R.W. Master requested the attendance of
the Brethren on Friday the 2Sth instant, at 12 o'clock, for the
Election of Officers for the ensuing year ; " and on St. John's Day a
letter was read from the Hon. Henry Erskine, R.W.M. of the Lodge,
"representing that he found it incompatible with the business in
which he was engaged to fulfil the duties of his office in the Lodge.
That he had the highest respect for it, and on that account could not
think of continuing longer in that high office, when it was evidently
prejudicial to the Interest of the Lodge, and therefore begged leave
to propose Bro. Thomas Hay, Surgeon in Edinr., as his successor,
which was unanimously agreed to."
c^&nyty OM^i^Jc.
14
io6 ®^e CIanong*tt piltulnning |Dobgc, fio.. 2.
The R.W. read a letter from the Grand Secretary, " respecting the
dues of admission, which was referred to the Committee. It was
agreed that the Cloathing and Jewels of the Lodge should not be
taken out of it unless upon a visit to the Grand Master."
A Grand Lodge visitation took place on 2nd January 1782, headed
by the Earl of Buchan, Grand Master, and others in " their proper
cloathing." Appended is a fac-simile of his Lordship's autograph.
^tuyna/TL. Q^ -AU.^
On 4th December 1783, John Beugo, the engraver of Nasmyth's
portrait of Burns, was entered, and on ist April following it was
resolved to procure a seal for the Lodge. It is evident that a seal
was procured, but was lost for a considerable time, as it is recorded on
1 2th March 1845, that the clerk to the Magistrates of the Burgh of
Canongate restored to the Lodge a seal found amongst their records.
It has not been seen, however, for the last thirty years. On St. John's
Day, 24th June this year, Bro. Alexander Fergusson of Craigdarroch
was elected R.W.M., and he proposed Charles More of the Royal
Bank to be Depute Master. Sir George Dunbar was admitted on 2nd
December, and a Grand Lodge visitation, headed by Lord Haddo,
Grand Master, took place on 6th January 1786. He was attended
by the usual Officers, including Dr. Nathaniel Spens, D.G.M., and
Thos. Hay, S.G.M.
The next visitation from Griand Lodge took place on 7th December,
and was headed by the Grand Master, Francis Charteris, Esq.,
younger of Amisfield, accompanied by the Right Hon. James
lord KoxTf\)k\)tn, p.CH.itt.
107
Sandilands, 9th Lord Torphichen (who. was initiated in Canongate
Kilwinning this year), Deputy Grand Master, and the other Officers
of Grand Lodge, all of whom sign the Minute. At this meeting the
Earl of Errol, the Hon. Mr. Gordon of Kenmure, Wm. Campbell,
Esq. of Fairfield, and others, were assumed as members.
The next meeting was held on 27th December, St John the
Evangelist's Day, when the usual ceremonies took place, and the
succeeding Minute is that which records the affiliation of Robert
Burns as a member of the Lodge.
CHAPTER VIII.
)-|^OBERT BURNS was entered an apprentice on 4th July
< 1^ 17S1, in the Lodge St. David's, Tarbolton, Ayrshire.
■*■ \ He was then in the twenty-third year of his age. In
July 1784 he was elected Depute Master, an office which he held for
several years ; and although it does not appear that Burns ever
occupied the dignified position of R.W. Master, it is evident from the
Minutes of the Tarbolton Lodge that he frequently acted as such,
for he,
" Oft honoured with supreme command,
Presided o'er the sons of light."
It is well known, that owing to a farming speculation which proved
a failure. Burns resolved to leave Scotland altogether, and entered
into an engagement to act as book-keeper in Jamaica. In these
circumstances he took farewell of the Tarbolton Lodge, in a lyric
couched in such noble masonic language, that it is acknowledged to
be one of the best Masonic songs that ever was composed. In this
year — 1786 — Burns printed a collection of poems which met with
splendid success. The result was, that instead of proceeding to
Jamaica, he visited Edinburgh, where he published a second edition
of his poems. This edition contains a list of about 2800 subscribers,
many of whom were members of Canongate Kilwinning Lodge.
Burns " left Mossgiel on horseback, by way of Biggar, for Edinburgh,
where he arrived " on 28th November 1786, and took up his residence
in a house in Baxter's Close, Lawnmarket. The first Lodge to which
I. Grand Master's Group.
0. Alexander Pergusson, Esq., of Graigdarroch — R.W.M,
1. The Hon. Francis Charteris (Lord Elcho) — Grand Master.
3. James Sandilands, 9th Lord Torphicl^en — R.W.M. Z787-8.
3. Archibald, nth Earl of Eglinton.
4. Tames Cunningham, Earl of Glencaim.
5. David, Earl of Buchan.
n. Depuie Master's Group.
6. Charles More, of the Royal Bank of Scotland— Depute
Master.
7. Patrick Millar, of Dalswinton.
8. James Dalrymple, of Orangefield.
9. Sir John Whitefbord, of Ballochmyle.
10. Sir William Forbes, of Pitsligo, Bart.
III. Secretary's Group.
11. Jolin Mercer, Secretary.
la. William Mason— Grand Secretary.
13. Robert Meikle, (absent).
14. Jame.^; Burnet, Advocate (Lord Monboddo^.
15. The Hon. Henry Erskine, Dean of Faculty— R.W.M. 17S0.
IV. Treasurer's Group.
z6. George Spankie, Treasurer.
V. Senior Warden's Group. .
II. William Dunbar— Senior Warden. R.W.H. 1788.
32. Kenneth Love, Tailor and Clothier for Lodge.
33. William Nicol, of the High School.
34. William Cruickshank, of the High School. ,h
35. Louis Cauvin, French Teacher.
VI. Musician's Group.
26. Allan MastertoD, Composer of Music.
37. Signor Stabilini, Violinist.
38. James Tytler, Author, etc.
39. Thomas Neil, Precentor of Old Tolbooth Church.
30. John Dhn— (jrand Tyler.
31. Alexander Campbell, Organist, etc,
33. John Campbell, Teacher of Music.
33. Samuel CHark, Organist of Cowgate ChapeU.
34. Geordie Cranstoun, Vocalist.
35. J. G. C. Schetky, Musician.
VII. Chaplain's Group.
36. Professor Dugald Stewart.
37. William Oeech, Publisher.
38. Peter Williamson (Aberdonian)
39. William Smellie, PnUisher.
40. Peter Hill, Bookseller.
VIII. Grand Treasurer's Group.
41. Sir James Hunter Blair— Grand Treasurer.
42. Francis, 7th Lord Napier.
43. James Boswell, of Auchinleck, Biographer of Johnson.
44. Alexander Nasmyth, Limner.
45. James Johnson, MnsiC'Seller, etc
Group IX.
46. Captain Francis Grose, F.A.S., of London and Perth.
47. James Gregory, M.D.
48. Alexander Wood, Surgeon.
49. David Ramsay, Journalist.
50. John Gray, W.S., City Clirk.
X. Junior Warden's Gronp.
51. John Millar, Advocate, The HLttorian.
52. Captain Fr. Bartlet, of Milton House.
53. Robert Ainslie, Writer to the Signet.
54. William Woods, Tragedian.
55. A Visiting Brother.
Gronp XI.
56. The Tyler.
57. Figure representing Stcricy.
■;8. Figure representing the £<fA/{<J»«»««"J'-
SO. Portrait of William St. Clair of Rosdyn.
60. Henry Sedgefield, Royal Navy.
Jlobtrt llurnjf asijSttmcb a Member. 109
he paid a visit was Canongate Kilwinning, on 7th December, and
after leaving it that night he wrote to his friend Gavin Hamilton, of
Mauchline : — " My Lord Glencairn and the Dean of Faculty, Mr.
Henry Erskine, have taken me under their wing ; and by all
probability I shall soon be .the tenth worthy, and the eighth wise
man of the world." A Minute of a meeting of the Royal Caledonian
Hunt, held at Edinburgh on loth January 1787, says : — "Amotion
being made by the Earl of Glencairn, and seconded by Sir John
Whitefoord, in favour of Mr. Burns of Ayrshire, who has dedicated
the new edition of his poems to the Caledonian Hunt . . . they
subscribe for one hundred copies," for which Burns received Twenty-
five pounds only. Burns attended St. Andrew's Lodge on 12th
January 1787, when a Grand Lodge visitation took place, and next
day he recorded the fact in a letter to his friend Mr. John Ballantine
of Ayr.
The Minute of the meeting when Burns was affiliated a member of
the Lodge is as follows : —
"St. John's Chapel, ist Febry. 1787.
" There being no meeting in January, the Lodge met this Evening,
and being duly Constituted, it was Reported, that since the 27th
December last, the following gentlemen were entered Apprentices,
viz. : — Mr. Burns, Mr. Speid, Captain Bartlet, Mr. Haig, G. Douglas,
Esq., E. B. Clive, Esq., Loyd Lynn Norfolk, Mr. Maule, Mr. Wother-
spoon, Mr. Moir, Mr. L. Carnegie, Mr. Archd. Miller, and Mr. James
Buchan, and that the following brethren were Passed and Raised to
the High Degree of Master Masons, vizt. : — Mr. Haig, Captain
Bartlet, Loyd Lynn Norfolk, Baron Norton, Mr. Craigie, and Mr.
L. Carnegie, who all paid their dues to the Treasurer, as also Mr.
Alexr. Boog.
"The Right Worshipful Master having observed that Brother
Burns was at present in the Lodge, who is well known as a great
Poetic Writer, and for a late publication of his works, which have been
I to S;i)c (Jtanongatc ^tlrainning |Cotigc, Jlo. 2.
universally commended, and submitted that he should be assumed a
member of this Lodge, which was unanimously agreed to, and he was
assumed accordingly.
" Having spent the Evening in a very Social, Afifect'- & Brotherly
manner, as the meetings of this Lodge always have been, it was
adjourned till next Monthly Meeting."
13 Entries,
;^IS 18 6
ALEXR. FERGUSSON, M.
7P.&R..
406
CHAS. MORE, DM.
Collected,
2 12 6
JO. MILLAR, Junior, /.fF.
£22 II 6
On 6th February Burns petitioned the Managers of the Kirk and
Kirkyard Funds of Canongate for leave to erect a headstone over the
grave of Robert Fergusson the Poet, and on the 24th he wrote to
Ballantine, " I am getting my phiz done hy an eminent engraver
(John Beugo, Princes Street), and if it can be ready in time, I shall
appear in my book, looking, like other fools, to my title-page." This
refers to the well-knowp portrait of the poet painted by Brother
Alexander Nasmyth, Artist, Writer's Court. It was about this time,
too, that Burns and Professor Dugald Stewart were wont to take
morning walks together to the Braid Hills.
The last Monthly Meeting of the season was held on ist March,
when Colonel Dalrymple of Inveresk, F. J. Hamond, Esq., and
Captain R. A. Maitland of Marchfield were entered apprentices, and
it was reported that at a recent meeting eleven members were passed
to the degree of fellow craft, including Mr. Gray and Mr. Buchan, the
City Clerk and City Chamberlain. Other two important items of
business were transacted on this occasion, namely that of transmitting
congratulations to the English brethren on the initiation at the Star
and Garter, London, on 6th February 1787, of his Royal Highness
the Prince of Wales, and, of conferring a tribute of respect on Burns.
In course of the evening, the R.W. Master, Alexander Fergusson of
Ilobcrt pttrnjs ajs ^oeU|La;tt«ate of tlje |lobge. m
Craigdarroch, Advocate, hero of the " Song of the Whistle,"* conferred
upon him the title of Poet- Laureate of the Lodge, and the Minute is
signed by the Master,' also by Charles More, D.M., and John Millar,
Advocate, J.W. The Senior Warden at this time was Wm. Dunbar,
W.S., respecting whom Burns says, in connection with his song,
Rattlin' Roarin' Willie : " The hero of this chant was one of the
worthiest fellows in the world, William Dunbar, Esq., Writer to the
Signet, and Colonel of the Crochallan Corps, a club of wits who took
that title at the time of raising the fcncible regiments." Amongst
the other active members of the Lodge were William Nicol and
William Cruickshank, both teachers in the High School ; the former
Burns resided with, and the latter was originally a member of St.
Luke's Lodge, In acknowledging a present of Spencer from Dunbar,
Burns presented him with some "tattered rhymes" as a mark of
esteem, and from the following extracts it will be seen that the
Laureateship of the Lodge furnishes the subject of part of them : —
" ' And wha gaes there ? ' thrice Millar gnintit ;
' I,' rattlin' Willie roar'd and duntit.
As twal is Tron'd we a' link out,
The moon — a raggit washin' clout —
Glints shame-fac'd to ae waukriff starrie :
The nicht's been wat — the caus'y's glaurie,
In Davie's straucht, and numbering aicht.
A bowl's filled to the rarest
For sang or story ; — or wha glory
In drinkin' to the fairest.
But Latin Willie's reck noo raise,,
He'd seen that nicht Rab crown'd wC bays.
And heard the corps, wi' ready roar,
Be-Knappin' a' his classic lore.
Still Cruikie offers Nic a wage,
Which best could tell the very age,
* The original manuscript was sold by auction in Edinburgh, 28th March
1887, for 230 guineas — the highest price on record for a single MS. by
the Poet.
5CI)t Canongate ^ilwinntnj ILobje, ^o. 2.
When Draco * and when Iram flourished,
And if they baith Freemasons nourished?"
About this period there was an impression abroad that Burns' rustic
manners were assumed. The ifollowing verse selected from several
that appeared in the Edinburgh Evening Courant, of 23rd June 1787
serves to shew this : —
" I'm no for riving off your brow
The laurel folks hae thocht your due,
But gin a while you left the plough,
T' tend the College.
Why should you smore the thing that's true,
Wi' a' your knowledge ? "
The earliest mention in the Minutes of his having held the office of
Poet-Laureate of the Lodge is recorded in that of 9th February 1815,
when the " R.W. Master stated ,tha.t he had observed a public subscrip-
tion had been commenced for the purpose of erecting a Mausoleum
to the Memory of ROBERT BURNS, who was a member apd Poet-
Laureate of this Lodge. That a printed notice had been handed him
under the authority of a Committee of Subscribers appointed to
manage the different matters connected, with the undertaking, point-
ing out the mode in which it was intended to proceed with the work,
&c. He then submitted to the meeting the propriety of the Lodge
commencing a Subscription, in order to contribute towards the
erection of that work, being the only manner in which they can testify
their respect for the memory of a public character so immediately
connected with them, and who on many occasions contributed so
generally to the harmony of the Masonic order, and to that of this
Lodge, Canongate Kilwinning, in particular; which motion was
seconded by Worshipful Brother Jaffray, and having met with the
* Draco, an Athenian legislator who was living in 621 e.c. The proverb
of the ancients was that Draco's laws were written, not in ink, but blood —
hence the phrase " Draconian severity."
^Ttotntu (Suiiteas noteb to IKtattSoUttm furib. ti^
unanimous approbation of the Brethren, the Secretary was directed to
furnish the Steward and Tyler with Subscription Lists, in order to
carry the views of the Lodge into execution." . . .
As appointed, a meeting of the General Committee was held on
8th June, and after the R.W. Master stated the purposes for which it
was called, " attention was in the first place called to the Minutes of
the General Meeting of the Lodge, held on the 9th of February last,
when it was unanimously resolved to open a public subscription by
the individual members of the Lodge, in aid of the General Subscrip-
tion by the friends and admirers of the lamented Bard ROBERT
Burns (who had been Poet-Laureate of this Lodge), for the erection
of a Mausoleum to his memory. ... It was moved from the
Chair, that as, taking into consideration the state of the funds of the
Lodge, the character of its members, and the veneration in which all
held the Memory of Burns, no sum below Twenty Guineas could with
propriety be offered in aid of such an undertaking . . . and that
the sum of £21 should be transmitted to the Rev. Thos. Duncan,
Secretary to the General Committee of Subscribers, for the erection of
the Mausoleum. . . . Brother JafTray moved that the R.W.
Master should in the meantime write to the Rev. Mr. Duncan,
intimating the intention of the Lodge to transmit the above sum after
their Annual Meeting of 24th June, when it was necessary that the
resolutions of the Committee should be reported to the Lodge, and
that the Treasurer should continue his exertions to obtain subscrip-
tions from such of the Brethren as had not yet subscribed, which
motion, having been seconded by BROTHER Charles More, was
also unanimously agreed to."
"At a General Meeting of the Committee held on 2nd January 1816,
the Secretary produced a sealed packet which had been left for him
in the course of the day, addressed to 'Right Worshipful George
Burnet, M. of Canongate Kilwimmig Lodge, or the Preses of the
Committee of the time,' which having been opened, was found to con-
tain a Letter from W. Brother Simson, Past Master, apologising for
his not being able to attend the Meeting, and stating, having in con-
tt4 ^Ift ^^anonpte l^tlminntng l^obge, ^o. 2.
sequence of the previous Minutes of the Committee and of the Lodge
received from the Treasurer the sum of Twenty Guineas, which had
been voted in aid of the funds for the erection of a Mausoleum to the
Memory of Robert Burns, late Poet-Laureate to the Lodge, he had
transmitted that sum to the Reverend Dr. Duncan, Dumfries,
Treasurer to that fund, and had received a letter in return, expressed
in very proper terms of gratitude to the Brethren, wrhich letter he now
reported to the Committee, and requested, that if it met their appro-
bation, it should be submitted to the Lod^e at its first meeting, and
put up among its Archives." v
Accordingly, at the Monthly Meeting on 8th inst, this "having
been done, the same met the entire approbation of the Brethren, and
the correspondence, &c., was directed to be put up among the
Archives of the Lodge."
The following is a copy of the letter received in reply to Bro,
Simson's remittance to Dr. Duncan : —
"Dumfries, Deer. 31st, 1816.
"Sir,
" I am commissioned by my brother, who is one of the Secretaries
to the Committee for conducting the affairs of the Subscribers to
Burns' Mausoleum, to acknowledge the very liberal contribution of
the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge to their funds ; and in name of the
Committee to request that you will communicate to the Lodge the
grateful sense which the Committee must entertain of the approba-
tion and confidence of that respectable Brotherhood. This tribute of
respect to the memory of your LAUREATE is not only most interest-
ing in itself, but must be highly gratifying to all the admirers of the
Bard.
" I have this day caused the sum inclosed in your letter (twenty
guineas) to be placed to the Treasurer's Credit in the Bank of
Scotland's Office, and sent a note pf it to the provincial newspapers,
too late, however, for insertion till next week.
(S^xtract (com puntfticis Courttr. 115
" My brother was obliged to go to the country without having it in
his power to write this acknowledgment, but requested me to make
his apology,
" I have the honour to be, Sir,
" Your most obedt, Servt.,
"THOMAS T. DUNCAN."
Addressed outside,
" George Simson, Esq.,
" Writer in Edinburgh."
There is still to be seen hanging on the wall in the south-east
corner of the Lodge-room — Burns' Corner — the original list of
individual subscribers to the Mausoleum Fund, with their respective
amounts. Several Brethren whose names appear there, are shown by
the records to have been initiated about the year 1786-90, and in
particular the name of Dr. Adair may be mentioned, who subscribed
one guinea. He it was who accompanied Burns " on a ten days' tour
when they left Edinburgh together in August 1787." At Stirling
they met Nicol of the High School of Edinburgh, who had been his
companion on his Highland tour, when Burns compared himself with
"such a compagnon de voyage to a man travelling with a loaded
blunderbuss at full cock.*'
The notice referred to as having been sent to the provincial papers
was as follows, which is here extracted from the Dumfries Courier of
7th January 18 17: — "The Canongate Kilwinning Lodge of Free-
masons have transmitted to Dumfries, through the hands of George
Simson, Esq., their R.W. Master, the sum of Twenty Guineas towards
the completion of Burns' Mausoleum."
The following interesting correspondence on the subject of the
Laureateship took place between Mr. D. Murray Lyon and the
Secretary of Canongate Kilwinning Lodge, prior to the appearance
of " Freewasonry in Scotland {and History of Lodge No. i)," pp.
332-334. Several portions are quoted verbatim in the above-named
work, and it will be seen that most of the information contained
therein was derived from this source ; — ■
ii6 Sfljc eranonjgatc ^ilroinning l^oligt, |to. 2.
"Edinburgh, 23rd January 1873.
" D. Murray Lyon, Esq.
" Dear Sir and Brother,
" I am directed by the R.W. Master and Office-bearers of
Lodge ' Canongate Kilwinning,' No. 2, to write yoii in consequence
of a statement made lately in the Lodge~by a visiting Brother to the
effect that in your forthcoming work entitled ' History of the Lodge
of Edinburgh (Mary's Chapel), No. i. Embracing an Account of the Rise
and Progress of Freemasonry in Scotland,' the connection of Robert
Burns the Poet with our Lodge is discredited.
" In these circumstances it is my duty to inform you that there is
ample evidence of the Poet's association with this Lodge as currently
reported, and I shall be glad to be assured by you that the statement
referred to is erroneous.
" Yours fraternally,
"(Signed) H. C. PEACOCK, Secy."
" Dalhousie Cottage, Ayr,
"24th January 1873.
" Dear Sir and Brother,
" Thanks for your note of yesterday's date. The state-
ment to which you refer is scarcely correct. It is not niy object to
depreciate any Lodge in regard to its association with eminent
characters. I have, in noticing Burns' connection with Canongate
Kilwinning, stated the following FACTS : — ist. That B. was ' assumed
a member' of the Lodge, Feby. i, 1787 ; 2nd. That Feb. 9, 1815,
B. is designated (for the _first time) Poet-Laureate of the Lodge ;
3rd. Canongate Kilwinning records contain 7to evidence of Burns
being elected Po.-L., or of his having been installed as such — as
represented in the Picture painted by Stew:art Watson. Bi;t if yovi
can show me proof that the Picture in question is a representation of
what actually took place, I shall only be too glad to avail myself of the
evidence. In my remarks on Canongate . Kilwinning, I embrace
a fac-simile ol Ws original commission as a branch of Mother KilwJn-
(JTorn^sponDtnce rtgacMng t^t IDinrtattis^ip. 117
ning, and also give it full credit for having taken the initiative in the
erection of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and of its being the mother
Lodge of St. Clair. My notes on Bums' connection with Canongate
Kilwinning will be in the printer's hands in a few days. Communi-
cate at once,
" Yours fraternally,
"(Signed) D. MURRAY LYON."
"Edinburgh, 7th February 1873.
" D. Murray Lyon, Esq., Ayr.
" Dear Sir and Brother,
" In reply to your favour of 24th ultimo, I beg to state
on behalf of the R.W.M. and Office-bearers of Lodge Canongate
Kilwinning, that, although we fully believe, as you profess, that it is
not your object ' to depreciate any Lodge in regard to its association
with eminent characters,' and we have every faith in your desire to
be impartial in your History of the Lodge of Edinburgh (Mary's
Chapel, No. i), yet, the explanation contained in your letter respecting
the notice therein of Burns and Canongate Kilwinning, I regret to say,
looks very like a confirmation of the report of it, which had reached
us ; and from your mode of stating isolated facts, it appears after all
that in your intended notice, the connection of ROBERT BURNS with
this Lodge, as commonly reported, is discredited.
" If I had that notice before me in full, as you purpose publishing it,
I should know better how to reply, and we might be saved some
correspondence ; but, with the statements regarding it as are given in
your note, I shall nevertheless endeavour to answer you.
" Had any doubt ever been previously thrown on the universally
accepted connection of Robert Burns with the Canongate Kilwinning,
the nature of your reference to it might be looked for in such a
comprehensive work as you propose to publish ; but, when it is con-
sidered that only now, when few of the living links remain, connecting
us with those who had often borne testimony to their personal
acquaintance with Bums, and to their having been at meetings of the
ii8 Si)e C^anongate ^tltninning f^obge, ^o. 2.
Lodge, when he was there as its Poet-Laureate, the tenor of your
notice appears extraordinary.
"The work published in 1846, entitled 'A Winter with Robert
Burns," gives a faithful exposition of the Picture of Burns' Inaugura-
tion as Poet-Laureate, and contains much interesting matter relative
to the individuals portrayed therein, and the Poet's intimacy with
them ; and when the materials for that work were being collected,
there were several members of the Canongate Kilwinning alive,
having vivid recollections of the Lodge meetings of 1786-7, from
whom much of the information was derived. Such testimony as
those then living witnesses of the events of 1786-7 in Lodge Canon-
gate Kilwinning is not available to us now, but what they did testify to
was WIDELY CIRCULATED AND NEVER CONTRADICTED. Their
accounts of Burns and his intimate association with the Canongate
Kilwinning, of his holding the appointment of Poet-Laureate, and of
his having been formally elected as such, were never doubted. Such
a circumstance, tlierefore, is strong evidence of the truth of what is
narrated in the ' Winter with Robert Burns."
" It is well known that the author of that work investigated the
subject it treats of very thoroughly, and from sources of information
which may not now be open to us, especially as just stated, from his
intimate acquaintance with many of the old members, — and that is
shewn by his own words, and other evidence in the Minutes, also
from having had the advantage of much historical information gleaned
by a Committee of the Lodge, formed a few years previously to the
date of his took, for the express purpose, as defined in the Minutes,
'of investigating the Records of the Lodge and to frame such an
account (of the Lodge) as may- seem to them most advisable.' That
Committee consisted of Mr. H. Jardirie, Advocate, R.W.M. (son of
Sir H. Jardine, R.W.M. in 1790), the D.M., Mr. Jas. Jardine, the
Sub. M., William Edmonstoune Aytoun, Mr. Alexander Robertson,
Writer to the Signet, and several others. Further, as one guarantee
in favour of the truthful compilation of the work under notice, we
have the status and well-known talent of its author ; and as another
Crorretsponbtnte tontintteb. 119
guarantee we have the fact, well known to a wide circle of Brethren,
that the matter contained in it with which we have at present to do
had been certainly obtained from or based upon the Minutes of Lodge
Canongate Kilwinning. No one has ever impugned the work in any-
way or discredited its narratives ; and, after nearly thirty years now
of its existence, it seems past the time to attempt doing so.
"In 1815 there must have been many among the Brethren of a
Lodge so strong in numbers who had either been associates of Burns
or well acquainted with those who had been in his company at their
meetings ; and in the Minute of 9th February of that year the state-
ment incidentally occurs regarding Robert Burns, that he ' was a
Member and Poet-Laureate of this Lodge'. Certainly if such designa-
tion could not then have been truthfully applied, and if the Brethren
of that time had not perfect faith in it, we arc bound to believe that
the Minutes would not bear any such record. You say that in your
notice of Burns and the Canongate Kilwinning, you have stated
certain 'FACTS,' and one of them is 'that February 9th, 1815, B. is
designated (for the first time) Poet-Laureate.' I trust to be
excused pointing out that such a fact, set forth with any such
emphasis, and standing alone — without qualification or further
information of any kind relative to it — is not likely to convey the
real truth to the reader. It may be the first time the designation
occurs in the Minutes, but it would be palpably wrong to suppose,
therefore, that Burns was only then for the first time termed Poet-
Laureate, unless the absurdity can be supposed that the men — of
acknowledged worth and status in society — who took leading part in
that meeting, had become for that occasion most unscrupulous and
untruthful, and that the men of equal position and character who
formed the meeting of 9th June 1815, when the Poet is again referred
to as ' the lamented Bard Robert Burns {who liad been Poet-Laureate
of tlu Lodge),' had likewise become equally dishonourable. The
Lodge was a strong one in those days ; for a long period its members
were exceedingly numerous, and had either the matter of Burns'
Poet-Laureateship, or of his formal election to the office of Poet-
120 ®I)e (Janoitgatt ^tlroinning floJlgt, fio. 2.
Laureate — so long and widely known — 'been untrue, the contradiction
would assuredly have been known also. Brethren who attended those
two meetings in 1815 can be shown by the earlier Minutes to have
been active members of the Lodge for many years prior to the close
of last century. In particular, I may mention ALEX. JAFFRAY
(repeatedly elected R.W.M.), and Charles More, who had filled
various prominent offices in the Lodge ; and here, regarding the latter
brother, I may state one fact which possibly you may have over-
looked, namely, that in that Minute of 9th June 181 5, Bro. CHARLES
More seconds a resolution anent the Lodge's subscription towards
the general fund then being raised for erecting a Mausoleum to the
memory of BURNS, who is so distinctly at this time, and by so many
worthy witnesses, acknowledged as Poet-Laureate of Lodge Canon-
gate Kilwinning, and one therefore in whom the Canongate Kilwin- '
ning had special interest. This Charley More, whose name occurs so
prominently in the Minute of gth June 1815, is the same whose ,
signature as Depute Master is appended to the Minute of ist February
1787, ijuhen Burns is affiliated, and to the following Minute of 1st
March 17 8y, at which date it is understood the Inauguration took
place* ' Indeed, Brother Charles More appears, by his signature to
the Minutes, to have attended all the Meetings during ,the period of
Burns' visit to Edinburgh 1786-7. The Secretary, Mr. Paul Taylor,
who wrote these Minutes of 1815, had held office for over ten years,
and must have been fully conversant with, reminiscences of the Poet
and his connection with our Lodge, derived from the very men who
had enjoyed the Poet's society.
" It may be reckoned comparatively slender evidence to add to the
foregoing, yet it may be remarked as some satisfaction to know that
there are members of the. Lodge at the present time who associated
for years with those members who had the privilege of Burns'
company in the Lodge when he wore the jewel of his office as Poet-
Laureate ; that further, that jewel was also worn by the Ettrick
* The reference to ist March 1787 is not embraced in Lyon's History.
IRobert linrng anJj |atntis Hogg, Poetji-Jattreate. 121
Shepherd as Poet-Laureate of Canongate Kilwinning, and it had
the name of Robert Burns engraved upon it when the Poet-
Laureateship was conferred upon him.
" Incidentally I may state also, regarding the foregoing matter, that
in the Minute of i6th January 1835, it appears a resolution was
carried to the effect ' that it was expedient that the honorary office of
Poet- Laureate of the Lodge, which had been in abeyance since the
death of the immortal Brother Robert Burns, should be revived,
and that James Hogg the " Ettrick Shepherd," on whom his poetic
mantle had fallen, should be respectfully requested to accept the
appointment as the highest tribute to his genius and worth which the
brethren have it in their power to bestow,' which motion it is said
' was unanimously and enthusiastically carried.'
" It is not much to be wondered at that reference to BURNS does not
occur more often in the Minutes, because, in the first place, the
Minutes for many years prior to 1789 are few, while we know from
various sources that meetings of the Lodge were very frequent, and
those Minutes are invariably brief; little else but a record of intrants,
passings, and raisings, — and generally written in a somewhat clumsy
and negligent manner. Their brevity in some instances cannot be
excelled — only a line and a half or eighteen words — and this at a time,
too, when there is every reason to believe that events worthy of note
were frequent in the Canongate Kilwinning ; secondly, at the time
that Robert Burns was affiliated to the Lodge and was elected its
Poet-Laureate he was not the distinguished Poet that he afterwards
became. Indeed it was only after his death in 1796 that the man or
his works were esteemed at anything like their value, and only after
many years was his memory regarded with anything like the venera-
ion ac corded to it now.
" I have had conversation on this matter with a distinguished
member of the Canongate Kilwinning who has been connected with
it for more than five-and-thirty years, and who stands high in the
Craft.* He knew Bro. William Petrie of our Lodge, who had been
* Bro. Samuel Somerville of Ampherlaw, M.D.
16
T22 ^Ift (iTanongate ^tlnitnmng l^obge, ^o. 2.
present at the Inauguration of Burns as Poet-Laureate, and has heard
from his lips many very interesting reminiscences of the Poet,, and of
events which had occurred in the Lodge when there in company with
him. Further, the member I refer to informed me that he also knew
intimately Bro. W. Campbell, W.S., who was for very many years a
member of Canongate Kilwinning, and who had similar recollections
of Burns, and I find in the Minute of Meeting of I2th November
184s, which records matter connected with the project of painting the
Inauguration, that this same Bro. Campbell seconds the resolution
' that Bro. Watson have access to sketch the antique and picturesque
interior of the Lodge with a view to his painting the Inauguration of
Robert Burns as her Poet-Laureate,' and adds that he had ' had many
opportunities of giving testimony in favour of the particulars referred
to,' that he had travelled in company of Burns, ' and spent two of the
most happy days with him at Auchtertyre Castle.' It is recorded in
this Minute also that Bro. James Marshall, who proposed the motion
quoted above, concluded his remarks by saying that ' years ago, when
he — Brother Marshall — attended this Lodge, he took a chief interest
in the reminiscences of old men connected with such events, but of
these he feared few survived.' Further on it is said, 'Brother
Marshall was requested to furnish the authenticated particulars to a
subsequent meeting, when the motion should be disposed of.' Mean-
time it was unanimously ' entertained.' And in the Minute of next
Meeting, 19th November 1845, when Brother Marshall brought up
his motion as directed, we are told that 'the motion was seconded
by the R.W.M., and unanimously carried.'
" But besides the unimpeachable oral evidence I have just adduced,
I should add the instance of another eminent member of Canongate
Kilwinning, whom I have the privilege of knowing,* and who has
informed me that the late Mr. Alex. Robertson, W.S. (R.W.M. of the
Lodge 1819 to 1830), and Mr. Alex. M'Neill, Advocate (and R.W.M.
* Bro. Wm. N. Fraser of Tornaveen, R.W.M., and present Chairman of the
Lodge Committee, 1888. ^
®orrej!ponbence antnt Inattgnration tontltiJitlr. 123
1830 to 1837), whom he knew intimately, had no doubt whatever of
the fact of the Inauguration having actually taken place, and they
must have associated with, or met many brethren who were present
on the occasion. Evidence so direct as this cannot be disputed.
"I need add no more now, except that I apologise for delay in
replying to your communication, occasioned by very great pressure
of business, which certainly has prevented me giving this subject the
attention it deserves ; but, should you be kind enough to favour me
with a copy or proof of such notice of Burns and the Canongate
Kilwinning as you intend publishing, I shall be very glad to write
you again with remarks upon it.
"Yours, &c.,
« (Signed) H. C. PEACOCK, Secy."
"Ayr, February 11, 1873.
" My dear Sir and Brother,
" I have to thank you for the very full statement you
have made anent the Inauguration, in name of the R.W.M. and other
Officers of the Canongate Kilwinning. I recognise the satisfactory
nature of the evidence you have submitted, and shall have pleasure in
giving effect to it in my forthcoming work. The delay which has
occurred on your part prevents my being able to submit a slip of my
remarks, the printers being close up to that particular part of my MS.
I would take the liberty of saying, that while I shall embody the facts
ybu have put me in possession of, I will not require to alter a single
sentence of what I had previously written. The report, to which you
have twice alluded, must certainly have been exaggerated. No one out
of Ayr has seen the MS. on the subject, as finally prepared for the
printer — i,e., before you addressed me on the subject. Again thank-
ing you, I am,
" Ever faithfully yours,
« (Signed) D. MURRAY LYON,
" H. C. Peacock, Esq.,
« Edinburgh."
124 S!)e (fTanongate S^ilroitimng fLobge, ^o. 2.
While Bro. Stewart Watson was putting the last touches to the
painting, of "The Inauguration," formal circulars were sent to the
Editors of all the Edinburgh Journals, inviting them or their critics to
a view of it, and the Scotsman said : — " The incident in the life of our
great Scottish poet which it represents, may at first sight be thought
a comparatively unimportant one ; but when we recollect that it was
one of the few occasions on which, during his lifetime, his poetic
genius was publicly acknowledged and proclaimed, we must at once
allow that in this view the event is not without its interest and
significance." The Weekly Chronicle and Pilot said : — "The ceremony
itself is interesting, as it brings the Bard of Ayr into view in one of
the few situations in which, during his own lifetime, his genius was
duly acknowledged. He is represented as about to be crowned with
the poetic wreath by the Master of the Lodge! His portrait strictly
corresponds with an engraving which we had the privilege of hearing
Mrs. Begg, the poet's sister, pronounce to be the most faithful likeness
of her illustrious brother among a number shewn to her at the same
time." The Edinburgh Evening Post : — " The Lodge at the moment is
filled by the most distinguished and notable men of the day in groups,
and so arranged as to show the friendships and remote intimacies
subsisting among them. All this is in admirable taste. The leading
characters are evidently portraits, but they are animated and lighted
up by the interest of the scene and the passing conversation arising
out of it. The group on the Master's left is composed of distinguished
visitors, such as Lords Elcho, Torphichen, Glencairn, Eglinton, and
the Earl of Buchan. On his right we have Sir William Forbes, Sir
John Whitfoord, Mr. Dalrymple of Orangefield. Mr. Millar of Dal-
swinton, &c. The next most prominent group of the whole is graced
by the interesting portraits of Lord Monboddo and Henry Erskine.
The next presents the 'Man of Feeling,' Baron Norton, and Lord
Kenmure, engaged in conversation. A prominent group now presents
itself, amongst whom Dunbar (Rattlin' Roarin' Willie) appears, sup-
ported by Nicol and Cruickshank, masters of the High School,
Louis Cauvin, and Allan Masterton, who, being a composer of music,
filentetiars of t^e InangaraUon of ^Sttrns! as poet=|Dattreate. 125
is addressing himself to the orchestra. We have then Dugald
Stewart, William Smellie, and Creech the publisher ; also Sir James
Hunter Blair, Lord Francis Napier, the celebrated "James Boswell,
Alexander Wood, Captain Grose, with many more interesting and
well-known persons connected with the history of the period."
The Centenary of the Inauguration of Robert Burns as Poet-
Laureate of Canongate Kilwinning, was celebrated on Tuesday, ist
March 1887, when the venerable Lodge-room was crowded with
brethren from the sister Lodges at home, and several from the
American, Australian, and other far distant Lodges. On this
interesting occasion the toast of the evening was appropriately
delivered by Past-Master W. N. Fraser of Tornaveen, who spoke
as follows : —
" Right Worshipful Sir and Brothers,
" I rise to perform the duty which has devolved upon me
of proposing a toast to an illustrious man and a former Poet- Laureate
of this Lodge — Robert Burns. On the ist of February 1787, the then
R.W. Master of the Lodge, Mr. Alexander Fergusson of Craigdarroch,
a member of the Scottish Bar, proposed that Burns should be
affiliated a Brother of the Lodge. This was unanimously agreed to,
and he was assumed accordingly. The Minute records that the
evening was spent in a most agreeable manner. On the ist of March
following — ^just one hundred years ago to-day — Fergusson of Craig-
darroch, Master of the Lodge, was again in the Chair, and conferred
upon Burns the title of Poet-Laureate of the Lodge. The appoint-
ment thus conferred was creditable to the Right Worshipful Master,
while the honour was fully appreciated by the Bard. He alludes to
the circumstance in the following lines : —
' To please you, and praise you.
Ye ken your Laureate scorns ;
The prayer still — you share still
Of grateful minstrel Burns.'
126 S;i)e danongate l^iltoinmng ?DoJige, fio. 2.
At this time of day it is useless to expatiate on the matchless genius
of Burns. The civilized world acknowledges it. Wherever the
English language is spoken, his poems are read and his songs are
sung. It is recorded that when, in a company of the highest spirits,
a question was raised as to what was deemed the most poetical
.passage in the English Language, Byi'on's quotation was : —
' Kings may be blest, but Tam was glorious,
O'er a,' the ills of life yictorious.'
And Sir Walter Scott, the greatest of Romancers, said that the stanza
which I now quote was worth a thousand romances : —
' Had we never lov'd sae kindly !
Had we never lov'd sae blindly !
Never met or never parted,
We had ne'er been broken-hearted, '
The words are the Alpha and Omega of feeling, and as the distin-
guished Mrs. Jameson remarked, ' contain the essence of the existence
of pain and pleasure distilled into one burning drop.' Before I sit
down. Brethren, I cannot resist mentioning what has often occurred to
. me, that I consider it a great want of taste in speakers at meetings
held in honour of Burns, that they ofttimes dwell — and at great length
— on the failings of this illustrious man. It is time that those should
now be buried, never again to see the light. Scotsmen ought only to
remember' the lustre which his genius has shed upon their common
country. I cannot help thinking that his friends and contemporaries
— many of them were of elevated rank and talent — ought to have
procured for him some more congenial occupation than an appoint-
ment in the Excise. I can believe that this failure on their part was
the great cause of the misfortunes which befell him.
' He lives whom We call dead.'
I now ask you, R.W. Sir and Brethren, to drink in solemn silence,
a toast to the Memory of our great Poet-Laureate — Robert Burns,"
CHAPTER IX.
,|1 ORD TORPHICHEN was elected and installed as Master
J I , of the Lodge on 24th June 1787, when Mr. Fcrgusson,
^^ jun. of Craigdarroch, was affiliated ; and at the succeeding
meeting four guineas were paid to a "Brother in distress," whose
case could " admit of no delay." The earliest mention of a Substitute
Master having been elected is on 24th June 1788, and on this occasion
a deputation from the Roman Eagle Lodge — instituted 7th February
1785 — is for the first time recorded, when six of their number, which
probably formed the entire deputation, were affiliated. On 4th
December, a " Brother from the Union Kilwinning Lodge at
Charlestown, South Carolina, was affiliated ; " and on St. John the
Evangelist's Day the Grand Master, Lord Napier, celebrated that
Festival, "no entertainment having been on St. Andrew's Day on
account of the indisposition of His Majesty."
On 6th January 1789, the R.W. Master was authorized to vote for
a minister for the Canongate Kirk, and during the evening a Grand
Lodge visitation was received, headed by Lord Napier. This Minute
records, for the first time in the books, that a deputation from the
Lodge Edinburgh Defensive Band — instituted 4th November 1782 —
was present. On Sth February, " estimates were received for white-
washing the roof and walls of the Lodge, and for procuring new
128 ^\)t Canongatt ^tlraxtminj |Lobgc, fio. 2.
ribbons for the officers, and proper jewels for the Depute and Sub-
stitute Masters, which should be entrusted to the Master and Depute
Master, both which were agreed to by the Brethren." N.B. — "At
this , meeting Brother Dr. Adair presented the Lodge with a new
Sword, to be used at entering Brothers, which was, accepted of with
thanks."
On 2nd April, it was intimated that there was no meeting in
March, as the Brethren attended the Grand Master to St. James'
Lodge " on that occasion." Dr. Touch, Grand Chaplain, was passed
and raised at this meeting, his fees being dispensed with " on account
of his profession." At the Annual Meeting on 24th June, Brother
Dunbar was re-elected Master, and the Lodge was favoured with
deputations from St. James' Lodge — instituted 19th August 1765 —
and the Thistle Lodge — instituted August 1751, but became extinct in
1 823 — " the former of which was returned by Brother Hay, Substitute
Grand Master, Brothers Wilmot and Holman, to show the regard the
Lodge have for their Operative Brethren." At the following meeting
on 6th August, Brother Neill, of St. James' Lodge, was assumed a
Member " for his brotherly attention to the Interests of this Lodge."
This evening several visiting Brethren were present, particularly the
"Master of the Ancient Lodge of Edinburgh, and of St. George's,
Dunse." ,
They met again on Tuesday, 3rd November, " in place of Thursday,
which is the Town's Fast Day." It was reported " that, by particular
desire of the Grand Lodge, several persons, who were to be part of the
band of Singers at the ensuing procession, had been entered Appren-
tices gratisr
"The Right Worshipful Master informed the Brethren that the
Foundation Stone of a new University was to be laid upon Monday,
the l6th inst., by the Grand Master, and that the Brethren were to
join him in procession to the place in their different Lodges. He
thereupon requested that the Brethren of this Lodge would meet
him on that day in the .Goldsmiths' Hall, at a quarter before eleven
o'clock forenoon.
/outtbation ^tone o{ WLnivetsits laib bg %ot'ii fCapier. 129
" He then mentioned that, as this edifice was to be built upon an
elegant and commodious plan, and at an expense exceeding what the
Town, as a body, was able to do, that it would require the assistance
of every one to contribute, as far as in their power, to the execution of
this useful and ornamental work. He hoped, therefore, the Brethren
of the Lodge would authorize him to subscribe, in their names. Nine
Guineas (being a Masonic number) for this purpose. This proposal
met with the most cordial approbation of the Brethren.
" Success to the new University, and the Learned Professors in it,
and the Healths of the Lord Provost and Council, the proposers of
it, and of Bro. Adam, the Architect, were drunk with the greatest
applause.
" The Band of Music, Vocal and Instrumental, who were to assist
at the Procession, were present, and rehearsed the several Anthems,
&c., to be sung upon that occasion.
" Two Brethren of the Roman Eagle were assumed Members. The
evening was spent in a most agreeable and happy manner. The
meeting was numerous and very respectable. It was attended by
several Members of the Town Council, and many Masters and
Members of different Lodges. Closed in proper form."
The next Minute is dated —
" St. John's Chapel,
"St. Andrew's Day, 30th Nov. 1789.
" This evening the Brethrerl met in their Lodge-room to celebrate
this Festival, there being no Procession or General Meeting of the
Brethren. A Supper was prepared for this occasion, which was
partaken of by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, the Lodge of St.
David's, and a numerous and respectable body of Brethren."
It was reported that the R.W. Depute, in absence of the Master
had, with the Brethren of the Lodge, attended the laying of the
Foundation Stone of the new University ; also, that since last Monthly
Meeting, fourteen gentlemen were received and entered Apprentices,
12
including Professor James Gregory, and George, seventeenth Earl of
Morton. The Right Worshipful intimated that, as no business fell
to be transacted on St. John's Day, he would take that opportunity of,
returning the visit of the Lodge of St. David's.
A second Minute of this date says : — " This evening the Lodge
. . . was visited by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, Brother Thomas
Hay, Grand Master p.t. ; the Right Honourable the Earl of Morton,
Grand Master Elect;" and i others, who all sign the Minute, "The
Grand Lodge was received w''- the greatest respect. They Supt and
spent the evening with the greatest freedom, ease, and happiness.
The Lodge was attended this evening by the Right Worshipful
Lodge of St. David's."
The following is an extract from the Minute of 7th January 1790 : —
" Tho' the meeting was by no means numerous, it was by no means
deficient in mirth and good humour, as usual on meetings of the
Brethren of this Lodge. The meeting was honour'd w'- the presence
of the Most Worshipful Sub. Grand Master Hay, and was much
pleased w'- the performances of B'- Aitchison on the Organ. Closed
in proper form and proper time."
The Annual Meeting took place on 24th June, when H. Jardine
was elected Master. At the meeting of 2nd December the Grand
Master, the Earl of Morton, was present when the ordinary monthly
business was being transacted, and a Special Meeting of this date
records that — " Thereafter the Right Honourable and Most Worship-
ful the Earl of Morton, Grand Master Mason of Scotland, attended
with the ' Right Worshipful Thomas Hay, Esq., Substitute Grand
Master ; William Campbell and John Scott, Esqs., Grand Wardens ;
William Mason, Esq., Grand Secretary ; and Robert Meikle, Grand
Clerk, preceded by the Grand Stewards, were pleased, to favour the
Lodge with a visit." . . . The autograph of the Grand Master is
appended.
initiation of tl)e flLaxurxii of |^otl)tan anti of tijc (Sari of |noras> 131
On St. John the Baptist's Day — 24th June 1791 — the Master and
other office-bearers were all re-elected for this year, and as the custom
of assuming Brethren of sister Lodges had become rather common, the
R.W.M. proposed " that, in future, no Brother should be assumed as a
Member of this Lodge without a motion for that purpose having lain
a month before the Lodge." Agreed to unanimously. Sir David
Carnegie, and twelve others, were reported to this meeting as having
been entered, passed, and raised. The following is the Minute of 7th
November : — " An Extraordinary Meeting having been called to
appoint a Substitute Master, to supply the vacancy occasioned by
Br. Lehrie's having gone abroad, the meeting unanimously appointed
Brother Dr. Adair to fill that chair, when he was admitted accordingly."
At this period the Lodge continued to hold the Festivals of St.
Andrew in their own room, for, on the 30th November this year, it is
again fouhd that the celebration took place in St. John's Chapel,
" when the attendance at this meeting was numerous, and the evening
was passed with much conviviality." Ten new Members were
reported as having joined since last meeting.
The Minute of the Annual Meeting opens thus : —
"St. John's Chapel, 2Sth June 1792.
"The Lodge, having met this evening (the 24th being Sunday) to
celebrate the Anniversary of the Feast of St. John the Baptist, the
Titular Saint of this Lodge." . . . Dr. Thomas Cochrane was
elected Master, etc. The Lodge received deputations from Mary's
Chapel, St. James', and St. David's. On 30th November, the Lodge
met to celebrate the Festival of St. Andrew, when it was reported
that, since last meeting, several gentlemen were entered, passed, and
raised, amongst them being the Right Hon. William Earl of Ancrum,
afterwards sixth Marquis of Lothian, and Grand Master 1794-95 ;
and the Right Hon. Francis Lord Doune, afterwards ninth Earl of
Moray, and Grand Master Mason of Scotland in 1796-gy. "The
Lodge was very numerously attended."
132 ^\ft ^anonsiste ^tltDtnning l^otigc. ^0. 2.
The Minute of 17th January records that as " the Lodge having
celebrated the Festival of St. John the Evangelist on the 27th ultimo
with their sister Lodge of St. David's, there was no meeting till this
evening." Having "received a Resignation from Dr. Cochrane,
Master of the Lodge, who was to leave this city, they elected Dr.
Farquharson to supply his pkce," and " then adjourned to celebrate
the Festival of St. Ive, with their sister Lodge of St. David's."
At the Annual Meeting Brother Dr. Farquharson was continued
R.W. Master. "The Lodge was visited by Bror. Home and the
Lodge of St. David's in form, and received Deputations from the
Lodges ' 0/d Journey Men] represented by Bror. Wilkie, and The
Thistle, by Bror. Peter, which were properly returned." Although a
nieeting took place on St. John the Evangelist's Day this year, none
appears to have been held on St. Andrew's.
On 1 3th February it is recorded that " a letter was received from
the Right Worshipful Substitute Grand Master of Scotland, Thos.
Hay, Esq., intimating that the Most Noble and Most Worshipful the
Marquis of Huntly, Grand Master Mason of Scotland, proposed
visiting this Lodge the earliest opportunity." It does not appear,
however, that his Lordship ever found an opportunity of carrying out
his intention. On 24th June 1794, Brother Dr. Farquharson was again
re-elected Master, and it was reported that twenty-one entries had
taken place since last meeting. The Treasurer's annual accounts
were passed. Two Minutes are again recorded on ist December,
the first of which mentions the entering, passing, and raising of several
gentlemen, including Sir James FouHs, Bart., and concludes as
follows : — " The Lodge this evening received the Honour of a visit
from the Right Honb'«- and Most Worshipful the Earl of Ancrum,
Grand Master, and the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and were attended
by several other of the Lodges of the City ; and, after spending an
evening with a conviviality and good humour which has seldom been
equalled and never surpassed, the Lodge was with regret adjourned."
Then foUowsthe second Minute, recording the Grand Lodge visitation
in the usual stereotyped and monotonous phraseology, of the Grand
(SfsetraorbtnarB iltteettng for fflljarttablt Pitrpojfesf. 133
Clerk. The signatures to this Minute are those of the Earl of
Ancrum ; Thos. Hay, D.G.M. p.t. ; Colonel M'Dowal of Logan, M.P.,
S.G.M. p.t. ; Sir James Foulis, Bart., and Andrew Houston, G.W.s ;
John Hay, G. Chaplain ; and Robert Meikle, G. Clerk.
The next Minute of interest is that of 24th June 1795, when Brother
Robert Moir was elected R.W.M. During the evening he referred to
a meeting of which no record has been engrossed. "The Rt.
Worshipful stated that the Brethren would recollect that an Ex-
traordinary Meeting had been called early in the Winter, for the
purpose of uniting the Royal Edinburgh Volunteers with Masonry,
the proceeds of which meeting it was agreed, should, without any
deduction whatever, be applied to charitable purposes. The whole
sum collected on that night amounted only to £%, 8s,, and was as yet
unapplied. The Right Worshipful took the liberty of suggesting that,
in order to make it a Masonic number, one guinea should be taken
from the funds of the Lodge, when he proposed to distribute these
NINE GUINEAS in the following manner: Three to the Indus-
trious Poor, Three to the Destitute Sick, and Three to the IN-
DUSTRIOUS Blind, which propositions were unanimously acceded
to."
On 1 2th November, a Brother of the Melrose Kilwinning was
assumed an Honorary Member, and the Lodge was attended by
Brother Hay, S.G.M., and Brother Campbell, late J.G.W.
30th November : — " This evening, being the Festival of St. Andrew,
the Lodge met for the purpose of paying their respects to the Grand
Master and Grand Lodge, along with the other Lodges in Edinr.,
on which occasion the attendance was both numerous and respect-
able." It is minuted on 3rd December, that " This night the Lodge
was visited by the Caledonian Lodge, under Brother Duff, the Depute
Master." ..." The Lodge was not closed till a late hour, as the
Brethren, from the unusual conviviality and good humour which
prevailed this evening, showed a very great disinclination to
separate."
On 24th June 1796, Brother Robert Moir was continued R.W. Master.
134 SI)e fflanongate J^iltoinning l^obfle, fio. 2.
The usual annual business was transacted, and the Lodge was visited
by deputations from " ^t. David's " and the " Journeymen." It was
reported on loth November that, amongst others, Dr. John Barclay,
Preacher of the Gospel, had been entered Apprentice and Member of
the Lodge, but that his fees (as is usual from his profession) had been
dispensed with.
The following is copy of the Minute of 30th November, which is
too quaint and original to be omitted here : —
" St. Andrew's Day 1796.
" The Lodge having met this evening, and haying been opened in
due form, the Treasurer reported that, since last meeting, Messrs.
Murray of London and 'George Watt had been entered apprentices,
and paid their dues accordingly, and that Brother Laing had been
passed and raised.
" There having been, on this day, no public entertainment for the
Brethren, the Members of this Lodge celebrated the Festival in their
own Lodge-room, where a Cold Collation was served up. There was
a very Numerous and respectable assembly of Brethren, among whom
were many of the oldest Members of the Lodge, whose appearance
and behaviour added much to the festivity of the meeting. The
Lodge was attended by the Lodge of Saint David's, and by several of
the Magistrates of Edinburgh, to whom and th6 Visiting Brethren the
proper honours were paid and gratefully received.
"A proper Compliment was also paid to our Right Worshipful
Master on his promotion to the place of Junior Warden of Scotland.
"After spending one of those happy evenings that FREE
Masonry bestows on its votaries, the Lodge was closed at high
Twelve with the proper solemnities."
On 1 2th January, "the Lodge being constituted, the R.W. p.t.
intimated to the Brethren that, owing to a severe indisposition of the
R. Worshipful Master, the Secretary had got instructions not to.
intimate the meeting w'hich should have taken place in December
ISeetinQ of (!lranb l^odge in tift ^arlknunt "^onat. 135
last. After congratulating the Members on the convalescence of
their worthy Right Worshipful, a circumstance at which they
cordially rejoiced, the R.W. pj. proposed that Brother William
Wight and David Wight of St. Luke's, and John Galbreath of
St. Stephen's, sh'^- be admitted Hon. Members of this Lodge."
Unanimously approved of. At the next monthly meeting on 2nd
February, the Secretary intimated that, through inadvertence,
Brother Alex. Jaffray's entry had not been inserted in tlie Minute
Book ; that he was entered and admitted a Member of this Lodge
on 24th June 1795 ; and, since last monthly meeting, was passed
and raised. "The R. Worshipful intimated to the Brethren that,
owing to the Fast Day previous to Dispensing the Sacrament, L.S.,
in the Parish of Canongate, happening on the night on which next
meeting would fall, he adjourned the meeting to the 6th day of
April next."
On 24th June 1797, Brother Robert Moir was for the third time
elected R.W. Master of the Lodge, and deputations were received
from St. David's and St. Stephen's. The following is the Minute of
30th November, St. Andrew's Day, copied in full : — " This evening a
very numerous body of the Brethren met the Right Worshipful
Master, and other office-bearers of the Lodge, and proceeded to
the Parliament House to attend the Election of the office-bearers
of the Grand Lodge, which being finished, they walked in procession
with the Grand Lodge and office-bearers, and Members of the other
Lodges in Scotland, amounting to upwards of One thousand of the
Brethren, to the King's Arms Tavern, where a repast was prepared."
At the December meeting, it was reported that eight gentlemen were
entered as Members of the Lodge, amongst whom were Messrs,
William Dalrymple and Charles Ker, two of the Magistrates of Edin-
burgh. " The R.W. was congratulated on his re-election to the office
of Junior Grand Warden of Scotland. The evening was spent with
much Harmony, to which the Brethren composing the Band of
Music to the Second Battalion of the 2d. Regt. of Royal Edinr,
Volunteers contributed not a little."
136 ®!)e dattongate ^tlrotnntng Jobge^ ^0. 2.
The first succeeding Minute of interest occurs on ist March, when
the Secretary records that " The Lodge this night was visited by the
Grand Lodge in form, as mentioned in the Minute thereof on the
opposite page." Then follows the Minute referred to, and as it is
written by a new Grand Clerk,, successor to Brother Meikle, the
phraseology is consequently different, and the whole is here tran-
scribed : —
"This evening the Lodge, being duly constituted by the Right
Worshipful Brother Robert Moir (present Junior Grand Warden of
Scotland), thereafter the Lodge was vizited by the Right Worshipful
Thomas Hay, Substitute Grand Master (in absence of Francis Lord
Viscount Doune, Most Worshipful Grand Master). Upon this occa-
sion he was attended by the Right Worshipful John Grieve, Master
of the Journeymen Lodge, and William Stoddart of St. Stephen's as
Grand Wardens p.t., and Thomas Sommers, Grand Clerk.
" The meeting upon this occasion was visited by the R.W. Master
of the Journeymen Lodge, Edinr., St. Stephen's, Do., and Edinr.
Defensive Band, Do., and proxies of various Lodges.
"The Most Worshipful from, the Chair addressed the Brethren in a
suitable manner, to which they made a suitable return.
" Upon the whole the meeting was opened with Propriety, con-
ducted with Regularity, and concluded with Harmony and true
Masonic form."
On loth April " the meeting was numerously attended, and the
evening was spent with true Masonic Joy." The R.W., in intimating
that next meeting would be the Electipn one, on St. John's Day, took
the opportunity of thanking the Brethren as follows : — " That he then
meant to vacate his seat, and in a short but warm address Returned
his thanks to the Brethren, not only for the honour which they had
conferred upon him by having elected him to preside over the Lodge
for three successive years, but also for the support and countenance
which they had uniformly given him by their numerous and regular
attendance."
<^t. ^nbttro's Pag (ffriebvatwrt. 137
The Election meeting took place on Monday, 25th June, " yesterday
being Sunday." The R.W. Master "recommended Brother Hugh
Smith Mercer, W.S, (whose father had for a period of twenty years
held the important offices of Steward, Treasurer, and Depute Master
of this Lodge), as a proper person to succeed him," The election of
Depute Master was deferred till the first meeting in November. The
Lodge of St. David's, as has been their uniform practice for many
years, spent the evening with the Lodge, also the Lodge of Canongate
and Leith Leith and Canongate. The Journeymen, and several of the
others in town, sent congratulatory deputations. The first meeting of
the season took place on 1 5th November, when Mr. Butler, organist,
was admitted gratis, " and contributed much to the entertainment of
the evening by his performances on the organ,"
On St. Andrew's Day, " in consequence of a previous intimation, a
numerous body of the Brethren assembled at Mr. E. Murray's, Vint-
ner, Parliament Close, to attend the R.W. Master and the other Office-
bearers, Upon this occasion the Brethren had to regret that distresses
of a family nature prevented their Worthy Master from presiding
over the Lodge, but they were fortunate in having this loss ably sup-
plied by the presence and presidency of their late Master, Brother
Moir. When the Brethren had assembled, they proceeded to the
Parliament House to attend the Election ; and when it was over,
they, with the Grand Lodge and the other Lodges in town, and Depu-
tations from a great many Lodges in Scotland, walked in a splendid
and well-conducted procession to the King's Arms Tavern, where a
cold collation was prepared. This Lodge spent a most agreeable and
happy evening in a separate room, where they were attended by the
Brethren of the Band of the First Regiment of Edinburgh Volunteers,
and at High Twelve the Grand Lodge was closed."
At the monthly meeting on 6th December the Treasurer reported
a list of fifteen new Members who had lately been admitted, besides
" several of the individuals of the Band of the 2d Battalion 2d Regt. of
Edinburgh Volunteers gratis, on consideration that their services were
required on St. Andrew's Day." On 27th December, " Brothers NeiJ
x8
138 Slje danonjatt |&tlrotnntnB ILoigt, ^0. 2.
M'Vicar and Archibald M'Dowal, of St. David's, had been passed and
raised to the dignity of Master Masons, they having also paid the
usual fees." Similar records of Brethren who were entered Appren-
tices in other Lodges constantly occur throughout the Minutes for
many years prior and subsequent to this date. " The R.W. Master
then read to the Brethren a Circular Letter which he had received
relative to the building of a MASONIC Hall, mentioning that it was
expected that thi? Lodge should subscribe such part of the Funds as
the Lodge could afford towards the expense of building it. Having
read the Letter, he submitted to their consideration till a future meet-
ing what sum ought to be subscribed from the Funds."
Appended is a fac-simile of the signature of the Earl of Ancrum,
Grand Master, afterwards sixth Marquis of Lothian.
The following copy of the Diploma, issued at this period to
Members of the Lodge, is supplied by Brother Alexander W.
Marshall— representative of the Grand Lodge of Scotland in South
Carolina — who is grandson of the party mentioned : —
%a all tokmn it mag tonaxn, These are to Certify that the
Bearer hereof, THOMAS MARSHALL, Esquire, from Charlestown, South
Carolina, was duely and regularly admitted an Apprentice, passed
Fellow Craft, and afterwards raised to the sublime Degree of Master
Mason in the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge of Free and Accepted
Masons, holding of The Grand Lodge of Scotland, as appears
from Authentic Documents produced to the Grand Lodge aforesaid :
In Testimony whereof these presents Are Subscribed by the Grand
^ Piplomai of IDaiSt ^entars. 139
Secretary and Clerk, the Seal of the GRAND LODGE hereto appended,
At Edinburgh, the Fourteenth day of July, in the year of Our Lord
one thousand seven hundred and ninety-one, and of Light Five
thousand seven hundred and ninety-one.
(Se^) WILL. MASON, G. Secy.
(S^^) R. MEIKLE, Gd. Clk:'
[Seal of Grand Lodge {Lion rampant,
and Castles) being attachedl]
G H A P T E R X.
J n(r< T this period the Craft proposed to build a Freemasons'
J ZA Hall for Grand Lodge, and for this purpose invited sub-
■*■ ■*■ scriptions from the various daughter Lodges. At the
last meetings of the season — 1798 — ■" the R.W. Master intimated that
in the event of the proposed measure being carried into execution, as
the funds were but trifling, he expected that the Brethren would subr
scribe individually whatever they thought proper, so as this Lodge
might be able to make up an handsome sum of a subscription — at
least to equal those which have already been given by several of the
other Lodges in town." The Lodge then adjourned, and spent the
evening with St. David's.
The first meeting held in 1799 received a Grand Lodge visitation,
headed by Sir James Stirling, as already stated,* and the Minute closes
thus : " The meeting upon this occasion commenced with masonic .
propriety — conducted with regularity — and concluded w^ith that har-
mony and exemplary behavipur which ever distinguish the meetings
of the Brethren."
At the monthly meeting on 7th February, seven entered Appren-
tices of St. David's and one of St. James' Lodge were passed and
raised in Canongate Kilwinning, and paid the dues ; and on 14th
March, " when the public business was finished, the brethren were sei
to work, and the evening was spent with unusual conviviality and
merriment till the accustomed hour, when the Lodge was closed and
adjourned till Saint John's Day."
An extraordinary meeting, however, was called on 1 8th April, to
take into consideration the propriety of "the Lodge's subscribing
* ^«/£) page 40.
^ab^crt])tton for liutlbrng a netn ^ranb |Dobge ^all. 141
towards building a Free Masons' Hall." The R.W. then read the
Minute of the last Committee meeting of the Lodge held on 9th inst.,
which stated at length the plan to be adopted by the Lodge relative
to this matter, and which was to the following effect : " That the funds
could not then afford a subscription ^qual to the magnitude of the
object in view, but individual members to be applied to for subscrip-
tions ; that those already received, with whatever sum the Lodge could
occasionally afford, be paid into bank ; that the Committee make occa-
sional Reports of the success of the individual subscriptions ; and when
they are of opinion that the subscriptions should close, make up and
lay before the Lodge a Report of the whole, and crave instructions
how to proceed — five additional Members to be added to the Stand-
ing Committee. The Secretary to prepare as full and correct a List
of the Members as he possibly can, distinguishing the Grand Masters
chosen from this Lodge, also the different Members who have been
Masters of the Lodge, and to report to the meeting of the Lodge to be
held on i8th current." No record of any meeting, however, appears
between this date and 24th June, when the Annual Election took place,
at which the R.W. Brother Hugh Smith Mercer was continued in
office. He " was necessarily absent that night on military duty, the
Corps of Royal Edinburgh Volunteer Light Dragoons, of which he is
a Member, being at present quartered at Musselburgh."'
On St. Andrew's Day, " there having been no public Entertainment
for the Brethren this day, the Members of the Lodge met in their own
Lodge-room for the purpose of celebrating the Festival of the Titular
Saint of Scotland."
The Minute of 12th December records that "This Evening the
Lodge was visited by the R.W. Master and Brethren of the Cale-
donian Lodge, among whom was Jamie Thomson the Kinleith Poet,
who repeated a number of his Poems, and sung several songs of his
own composition, much to the satisfaction of the Brethren, who were
much gratified at seeing among them a Brother who promises to do
honour to the Scottish Muse."
On 20th March 1800, the R.W.M. informed the Brethren that the
r42 3I)c fflaiioirgate 35,tltDinnttig JDobge, ^o. 2.
meeting of the Lodge which should have taken place on the first
Thursday of the month had been necessarily delayed till this evening,
owing to the meeting of the Journeymen Lodge being held that even-
ing for the purpose of receiving visits from the other Lodges in town,
when it had been " usual for this Lodge to wait upon them, and which
had been done accordingly." A visitation from the Journeymen was
received this evening.
The next meeting took place on 24th June, when Brother Mercer
was again elected Master, and the Treasurer's accounts and other
business transacted. The R.W. Master and a numerous deputation
from St. David's were received.
"At this meeting Brother HENRY Brougham, Advocate (Lord
High Chancellor of England), of the Stornoway Lodge, was assumed
a Member of this Lodge."
St. Andrew's Day falling upon Sunday, the Festival was held on
Monday, ist December, when the Brethren proceeded to " the King's
Arms Tavern to pay their respects to the Right Honourable and
Most Worshipful Earl of Dalkeith, who was this day elected Grand
Master for Scotland." ,
The Festival of St. John the Evangelist was celebrated with the
Lodge of St. David's.
At the meeting of 2d April 1801, " Brother Turpin, of the Theatre-
Royal, was passed and raised gratis on account of the amuse-
ment he affords the Lodge," which was not closed till a late hour, the
Brethren showing " little inclination to separate."
On 13th May " the R.W.M. informed the Brethren that the Founda-
tion Stone of the New Wet Docks at Leith was to be laid to-morrow
by the Grand Master of Scotland, and that the Brethren were to join
him in procession to the place in their different Lodges. He therefore
requested that the Brethren of this Lodge would meet him to-morrow
morning at the Assembly Rooms, Leith, at Eight d clock, to join in the
procession."
At the Annual Meeting on 24th June, Brother Alexander Jaffray
was elected R.W, Master (Sir George Mackenzie and Daniel Ainslie
'lifter jBarknesg tomes pgljt." 143
entered), and on i6th November, being the first regular meeting of
the season, " upwards of one hundred of the Brethren met, and after
speilding the night with heartfelt pleasure and satisfaction, the R.W.
Master closed the Lodge in due form." The Festival of St. Andrew's
was presided over by the Earl of Dalkeith, Grand Master, and the
R.W. Master of Canongate Kilwinning sat as Senior Grand Warden,
consequently the Depute Master opened and presided over the
Lodge, when they proceeded to join Grand Lodge at the King's
Arms Tavern,
On 3rd December, " The Honble. Henry Ramsay, at Lady Dal-
housie's, St. Andrew Square, was received as an Honorary Member."
. '. . " The Lodge was not closed till a very late hour ; what with
Br. Schetky's violoncello, Messrs. Campbell and Butler playing upon
the organ, and a great number of delightful singers, it was with reluc-
tance the Brethren left the room after the Lodge being closed in due
form."
iSth December 1801 : "A very select meeting of Master Masons
took place at the Lodge this Evening. ... A vote of thanks was
given by the Worshipful Depute Master, and joined with endeared
delight by the rest of the Brethren, to our Rt. Worshipful Master, for
his having made a Present of a very handsome Sword, elegantly
mounted in Silver, with a proper Motto engraved upon it, viz. : ' Past
Nuhila Phoebus ' (After Darkness comes Light), for the use of the
Canongate Kilwinning Lodge."
On 7th January 1802, "B""- Fran'- Oliver L'Evesque, Orator in the
Lodge of the Reunited Arts at the Orient of Caen," was affiliated, and
it was reported that, at the meeting of isth December, Brethren of the
Thistle Lodge, Ancient Brazen Linlithgow, and St. Magdalen of Lin-
lithgow, were all received Honorary Members. At the meeting of 3d
March, Patrick Stirling of Kippendavie was entered, passed, and
raised.
At the Election Meeting on 24th June, the R.W. Brother A. Jaffray,
and all the other Office-bearers, were re-elected. " The Committee
recommended that a new seal should be got for the Lodge, and remit to
144
@;i)e Canongatt |&tlTDtnntft|| l^olist, fLo. 2.
Messrs. Jaffray, Russell, and Carroll, to project a proper devicfe. Like-
wise that the fee for a Diploma should be seven shillings and sixpence
sterling. They approve of four prints which were got for the Lodge,
and they recommended that the Lodge should be painted, and that
new Covering should be got for the Tables. All the above-mentioned
has met with the approbation of the Brethren." Deputations were
present from St. David's and Journeymen, and the Lodge " was closed
with regret, after a night spent with the greatest harmony and delight,
and to the heartfelt satisfaction of every Brother present."
On 2ci November the Minute says, " This Evening the Lodge was
opened by the R.W. Master, who had never been absent from that
ceremony since he came to the chair: a numeroiis meeting took
place," and amongst fourteen new Members reported as having been
entered since last meeting appears the name of the Right Honour-
able George, ninth Earl of Dalhousie, who was M.W. Grand Master
from 1804 to 1807 ; ^nd at next meeting, on 23d of the same month,
several gentlemen were entered, amongst whom appears the name of
Nicolas Sablankoff, MajorrGeneral in the Russian ServicCj and the
Earl of Dalhousie was passed and raised. The following copy of the
Minute of 30th November — St. Andrew's Day— will be read with
interest ': " This being the Anniversary of St Andrew's, the Brethren
of this Lodge assembled in the Old Justiciary Court- Room, and from
thence proceeded to the Parliament House for the purpose of Elect-
ing the Office-bearers of- the Grand Lodge for the ensuing year.
Accordingly the following Noblemen and Gentlemen were elected •
with reiterated demonstrations of applause, viz. :
The Earl of Aboyne,
Earl of Dalhousie,
John Clerk, Esq., .
Sir Geo. Mackenzie,
Jas. T. Gordon,
John Hay, Esquire,
Mr. William Guthrie,
Rev. Dr. Touch,
Mr. Jas. BERT^iAirf, .
Grand Master,
D.G. Master.
S.G. Master.
G. Warden.
)>
G . Treasurer.
G. Secretary,
G. Chaplain.
G. Clerk.
(grand %oit%t Bisttatton. 145
"After which the different Lodges, according to their seniority,
walked in procession down the High Street to the King's Arms
Tavern. The streets were lined with the City Guard, a large Division
of the 42d Regiment, and an immense number of boys with Torches,
ail under the direction of Sergeant-Major Gould, who had great merit
for the correct manner he conducted it.
" The Evening upon the whole was spent with a great deal of happi-
ness. The crowd was very great, which caused many to leave the
Room who could not be provided with seats. It was a long time
before they were all in order, the bustle at the door prevented the
Stewards of the different Lodges from getting their respective Brethren
provided with ammunition, which delay made the Brethren very un-
ruly, and caused a great noise which was not quieted until a very
late hour.
" All the other business was carried on by the Right Hon. & R.W.
the Earl of Dalhousie, D.G.M. (in absence of the Earl of Aboyne),
who gave a great number very appropriate Toasts, which were drunk
by the Brethren with every mark of esteem and regard.
" The Lodge was not closed until a very late hour, and Peace and
Quietness reigned throughout the City."
The first meeting this year (1803) took place on 6th January, when
a Grand Lodge visitation took place, headed by the Earl of Dalhousie,
who signs the Minute. He was accompanied by Sir George Steuart
Mackenzie of Coul, Bart., Sub.-G.M., and the other Grand Office-
bearers, "who were ushered in by the Stewards in their rods, and
received by the Lodge with the usual and accustomed honours."
19
146 ' ®t)e fflanongate ^.ttroinntng |Loiige, |lo. 2.
On that occasion Deputations were received as follows :
Mary's Chapel, . . . R.W. Bror. Wilkie.
Journeymen, ... „ Moir.
Edinr. St. Andrew's, . . „ Edgar.
„ St. James', . . „ Dunn.
Caledonian, ... „ M'Kenzie.
" All in the Clbathing of their respective Lodges." The Minute goes
on to describe the evening's proceedings in the usual manner.
At the Annual Meeting on 24th June, Brother Jaffray was again
elected R.W.M., and it was resolved, " That although Brother Alex.
Forbes, who had so long and faithfully served the Lodge as Tyler &
Steward, was incapacitated from doing the duties of his office by age
and infirmity, that he nevertheless sh"^- continue to draw such a pro^
portion of the fees of Entries, &c., as he had been accustomed to do."
- On 29th November, the meeting was attended by the Earls of Dal-
housie and Errol, Colonel Campbell of Shawfield, &c. The Earl of
Errol was assumed a Member, and the following, amongst others,
were entered Apprentices, viz. : The Right Hon. Lord Rancliffe, the
Right Hon. Lord Forbes, and Thomas Sheridan, Esq., Aides-de-Camp
to Lord Moira.
"After passing a pleasant evening, distinguished by true Masonic
harmony, the Lodge was in due form closed, but not till an early
hour."
Another Grand Lodge deputation, headed by the Earl of Dalhousie,
was paid on 28th December. On this occasion he was accompanied
by Sir John Stewart of Allanbank, and others, and deputations from
various sister Lodges were present. The Masters of Canongate and
Leith and Leith and Canongate and St. Andrew's Lodges acted as
Grand Wardens.
It appears that, on a deputation, paying a visit to the Thistle
Lodge about the beginning of the year 1804, some misunderstanding
occurred during the evening, and, in consequence, a Committee of
Canongate Kilwinning was summoned for next day, 3rd March, to ,
take the matter into consideration, and to determine what steps should
Pisputt tuiti) tl)e Slji.stle ftobge. 147
be taken to vindicate the alleged aspersion cast upon No. 2 by the
Master of the Thistle. "The Committee having met, Bro. Joseph
Dixon, W. Sub. Master, stated that he had, on the preceding
evening, gone with a deputation of the Lodge to visit the Lodge
of Thistle, where R.W. Bro. Seivwright presided. That upon the
occasion of Bro. Seivwright's drinking to him and his brethren as
representing the Lodge of Canongate Kilwinning, the former made
a long harangue, which instead of conveying any Compliment to the
Lodge, had for its object to impress upon the minds of the whole
brethren present that the Lodge of Canongate Kilwinning was very
deficient in brotherly love and respect to the Sister Lodges, and
intentionally treated them with neglect, pluming herself on her own
opulence and prosperity. That the W. Bro. Dixon, in answer,
endeavoured, to vindicate the Lodge from so unjust an aspersion,
when R.W. Bro. Seivwright, instead of apologising for what he had
said, called upon the brethren present to support him. That, in such
circumstances, he left it with the Committee to determine what steps
they nfiight think proper to take to vindicate the honour of the
Lodge.
" It was Resolved, That the R.W. Bro. Jaffray should write such
a letter to R.W. Bro. Seivwright as he sh"*- think proper, demanding
an apology alongst with the answer to be received thereto (if any),
they ordered to be engrossed in the Sed'- Book, and in case no
answer was received, or one that should not be deemed satisfactory,
that the Committee would then consider what line of conduct ought
to be adopted."
Accordingly a letter, of which the following is a copy, was written
by the R.W. Master to R.W. Bro. Seivwright :—
"St John's Lodge, 3rd March 1804.
"SIR,
" I was not a little surprised when Mr. Dixon informed me of
the abusive attack which you made from your chair upon the Lodge of
Canongate Kilwinning last night, and your conduct was the more
148 SI)c danongate ^iltoinninj l^oligc, |lo, 2.
unexcusable considering the purpose for which Mr. Dixon, with a
deputation of the Lodge, visited you, who, by every rule of hospitality
and good manners, required your respect, and, if necessary, your
protection.
" If the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning has, upon any former occa-
sion, given offence to the Lodge Thistle, it certainly was your duty to
have remonstrated with the Master of the Lodge, to whom alone, in
the first instance, responsibility attaches. By this means an oppor-
tunity would have been afforded of offering either a vindication or; if
necessary, an apology. But to invite a Lodge to a friendly visit and
then take an opportunity of traducing it, not only in presence of the
Members of your own Lodge but before the brethren at large, was
' adding injustice to insult.
"The Lodge of Canongate Kilwinning never since I knew it, and
certain I am never since I had the honour to fill the chair, wittingly
gave offence to any of the sister Lodges ; and although fortuitous
circumstances have placed her high on the Roll of Lodges holding of
the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and fortune hath liberally supplied her
treasury, yet I am conscious that the Lodge never, on account of the
one or other, entertained any other sentiment for the sister Lodges
but the most profound regard and respect. Your insinuation, there-
fore, was illiberal and unfounded.
" As Master of the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning, ever tenacious of
its honour, I consider it to be my duty, and I have the approbation of
my brethren in office for so doing, to call upon you to make an
apology for the attack you made upon the character of the Lodge,
which I trust a love of justice will incline you immediately to do,
so that the friendly intercourse betwixt the Lodges may not be
interrupted.
" I am. Right W. Sir,
" Yours, &c.,
"ALEX. JAFFRAY, M.CK.
"To AndW- Seivwright, Esq.,
" R.W.M. of the Lodge Thistle."
^polojB from tl)e Jl.OT.|!t. of |Lobgt 31)istlc. 149
To this letter the following answer was received : —
"Edinr., 3rd March 1804.
" R.W. Sir,
" I have received yours of this date, and am exceedingly
sorry that I should have given so great offence to the visiting
Brethren of the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning. I acknowledge the
observations were ill-timed ; but I hardly think I could have forgot
myself so far as to have made an abusive attack upon your Lodge.
However, as the visiting Brethren have considered themselves ill-
used, I think it a duty I owe to myself and the Lodge over which I
have the honour to preside, to apologise for my conduct, and have to
request that you will accept of the same, that the friendly intercourse
betwixt the Lodges may not be interrupted. I have only to add that
I have not consulted my office-bearers on the present occasion, but
with my own feelings.
" I am, with Respect,
" Right Wor. Sir,
" Your most obedt. Servt.,
"(S'') ANDW- SEIVWRIGIIT, ^/.ZZ.
" To R.W. Brother Jaffray,
" Master of Lodge Canongate Kilwinning."
" 5th March. The Committee are of opinion that this apology
should be received, and recommend it to R.W. Brother Jaffray to
cause these Minutes, with the above Letters, to be read at the first
monthly meeting of the Lodge."
On 24th June Brother Robert Moir was, in his absence, a second
time elected R.W.M. of the Lodge, and at next meeting on 6th July
he was duly installed with the usual ceremony. " The admission that
night was 4s., as the proceeds of the meeting were applied for behoof
of Brother Schetky, whose merit and attendance on the Lodge entitled
him to the attention of the Brethren."
On 29th November, the evening previous to St Andrew's Day,
150 oTIje GTanongate 3&ilt»innmg l^obgc, ^0. 2.
there were entered, passed, and raised altogether the extraordinarily
large number of thirty gentlemen. Next day the Brethren met in the
old Justiciary Room, from whence the usual procession took place
down the High Street, along the North Bridge, to the Theatre,
'-' The streets were lined with different Companies of the Militia
Regiments in Town, and an innuvterable number of Boys with torches,
which had a most splendid effect."
The Minute of Jth December says : — " This was the second Monthly
Meeting of the Lodge for the Season., Th^re were upwards 0/ i$o
of the most respectable Bm. of Edinburgh attended, and they were
highly entertained by the musical talents and abilities of Messrs.
Elliot, Evans, an^ Watt, who were passed and raised to the sublime
degree. of Master Masons on the 29th of last month ;" and on 27th
December, "The Lodge met that evening and visited St. David's
Lodge, headed by the Past Master, the R.W.M. not being able to
attend, which the Brn. regretted exceedingly."
On 3rd January 1805, the Lodge St. David's, headed by the R.W.M.,
Brother Joseph Gillon, paid a return visit, when he and the Master- of
the Dunfermline Lodge were admitted Honorary Members.
The following Minute, it is interesting to remark, records that
a meeting was held in the, Lodge-room by Mary's Chapel, No. i : —
" St. John's Chapel, 24th Jany. 1805.
" The Lodge met this evening for the purpose of visiting the Lodge
of St. Mary's Chapel, the Brethren of which had bden accommodated
with the Lodge Room, of Canongate Kilwinning, and accordingly
visited the Lodge, headed by the Right Worshipful Master."
" Afterwards the Lodge of St. Mary's Chapel was visited by the
Right Honble. and Most Worshipful the Earl of Dalhousie, Grand
Master Mason of Scotland, when R.W. Bro. Moir had the honour to
act as Senior Grand Warden. It was likewise visited by the Lodges
of Journeymen Masons, St. David's, St.' Andrew's, St. James's, and
Caledonian, headed by their. respective Masters."
Irisl) %oi>it fio. 570 at fictgljill '^arrackis. 151
On 7th February a new Secretary was elected in place of the old
one, who resigned in consequence of severe indisposition, .and the
Lodge was this evening visited by R.W. Brother Wilkie of Mary's
Chapel and R.W. Brother Mitchel of the Caledonian Lodge, both of
whom were assumed Honorary Members of Canongate Kilwinning,
together with Brother Macpherson of the Lodge Muthil St. John ; and
on 4th March " The Lodge met for the purpose of visiting the Lodge
570 on the Register of Ireland, presently at Piershill Barracks, and
the R.W. Master, along with a numerous and respectable Deputation,
proceeded accordingly in Coaches to the Barracks, where they were
received with every mark of attention and respect. After spending a
pleasant evening, they returned at | past 10 o'clock."
At the Annual Election on 24th June, Brother Moir was again
appointed to fill the chair, and the usual financial and other business
was transacted. The following meeting on 7th August was an extra-
ordinary one, under the patronage of the Right Hon. the Earl of
Dalhousie. " The Collection for this evening was intended to be
applied to the' Funds of that useful and benevolent Institution, the
Asylum for the Industrious Blind."
On St. Andrew's Day the Lodge, as was usual on this anniversary
for several years back, took part in the Grand Lodge ceremonies,
when the Earl of Dalhousie was re-elected G.M. and the Earl of
Moira D.G.M.
On 24th June 1806, John Lawson, Esq., was elected R.W.M., and
deputations were received from St. David's and St. James's Lodges.
During the remainder of the year the meetings seemed to have been
rather thinly attended, and on that account the Minutes are short and
uninteresting, although they record the admission of numerous
entrants.
On Sth March 1807, being the fifth monthly meeting for the season,
the Lodge was visited by " Sir John Stewart, R.W. Master of St,
Luke's Lodge, at the head of a very respectable Deputation." In
June, at the Annual Meeting, Brother Lawson was re-elected R.W.M,,
and on St. Andrew's Day the " Brethren met in the Council Chambers
152 ®I)e danongate ^iltoumtttg JLobgc^ ^o, 2.
(according to appointment), and from thence proceeded to the Parlia-
ment House, when H.R.H. the Prince of Wales was elected G.M.,
with the Earl of Moira Acting G.M. under H.R. Highness, etc., after
which the different Lodges, according to their seniority, walked in
procession down the High Street to the Tron Church, where a sermon
was preached on the occasion by the Rev. Brother Brunton. There-
after a respectable number of this Lodge dined with the R.W.M. and
office-bearers in the Royal Exchange Coffee House, and in the
evening proceeded from thence to their Lodge-room, when a numerous
attendance of the Brethren took place," . . . and Deputations
attended from Mary's Chapel, St. David's, and the Royal Arch.
On 4th February, amongst other deputations present was one from
the Thistle Lodge, being the first record of a deputation from that
Lodge since the letter of apology to R.W. Brother Jaffray. Another
deputation from it is minuted at the very next meeting in March, and .
it may be concluded that all differences were now forgotten. At this
meeting " the R.W.M. requested the Brethren to allow a Candidate to
pass through the Lodge to the Stewards' Room, to be entered an
Apprentice, and this was duly carried out."
0'
CHAPTER XI.
^N 4th May 1807, Dr. John Mitchell, R.W.M. of the
Caledonian Lodge, moved in Grand Lodge that "an
address be presented to His Majesty," thanking him
{inter alia) for " supporting the established religion of the country."
The motion was defeated.. Next year, on January 21, Dr. Mitchell
was found guilty, by a majority of 159 to 91, of having, at one of the
Caledonian Lodge meetings, proposed that "it should secede from
Grand Lodge." He was suspended from masonic privileges sine die,
and three days later the Doctor was re-installed in the chair of the
Caledonian Lodge, when it was resolved " to discontinue their connec-
tion with the Grand Lodge." Thereupon Dr. Mitchell and some
Members of his Lodge were expelled — 2nd May 1808 — while certain
Members of Mary's Chapel, and other alleged abettors of the schism,
were suspended. This determined the Lodge of Edinburgh — 21st
June — to discontinue their connection with Grand Lodge. Similar
resolutions were come to by the Lodges St. David, St. Andrew, and
Canongate Kilwinning, whilst counter resolutions were passed by
those Lodges in Edinburgh which remained firm in their allegiance
to the Grand Lodge.
Following up the resolutions under which they left the Grand
Lodge, the seceding Lodges met — ^July 18 — in the Lodge-room of
Canongate Kilwinning (St. John's Chapel) and organised themselves
into a separate body, under the designation of "The Associated
Lodges seceding from the present Grand Lodge of Scotland."
The following are copies of the Resolutions and Reports of Canon-
gate Kilwinning Lodge in connection with this dispute, £is engrossed
in the Minutes of the period : —
20
1^4 ^^i ^anoitgate l^tltBitining IDobge, ^o. 2.
" At a meeting of the General Committee of the Lodge held on the
20th June 1808,
(Present — 17 Menibers),
"The Treasurer's accounts having been found correct and duly
passed, the R.W. Master informed the Committee that he had re-
ceived from the Lodge St. Mary's Chapel, and from the Lodge Edin-
burgh St. Andrew, certain Letters and Resolutions of those Lodges
regarding some late proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Scotland,
which he was requested to lay before the Brethren of this Lodge ; but
he thought it his duty to call this meeting for the purpose of taking
these into their c9nsideration previous to St. John's Day, and to make -
out a Report of their proceedings, to be laid before the Lodge at their
first meeting, which was ordered for the 23d current. Several other
Letters having been laid before the Committee, and after a very full
deliberation of the whole, they had but one opinion of the merits of
these Commuhications, &c. They therefore remitted to a Sub-Com-
mittee to put their sentiments into proper form.'' The proceedings of
this and the Sub-Comniittee meetings are fully detailed in the
following Minute : —
"At a General Meeting of this Lodge held upon the 23d
day of June 1808,
" The Lodge being duly opened, the R.W. Master stated, That he .
had lately received from the Lodge of St. Mary's Chapel, and from
the Lodge Edinburgh St. Andrew, certain Letters and Resolutions
of those Lodges regarding some latp proceedings of the Grand Lodge
of Scotland, which he was requested to lay before the Brethren of
this Lodge.
" These Letters and Resolutions he considered it his duty, in the
first place, to submit to the Standing Committee of the Lodge, which
he had accordingly done at a meeting held upon the 20th June cur-
rent ; as also a Letter, of datb the 6th instant, which he had received
from the Grand Secretary, desiring him to attend a meeting of the
Grand Lodge on the 13th instant, and prefixing copies of Letters,
from which it appeared that one of the purposes of said meeting was
^etc^jiion; from (!§ranb |Lot)gt. 155
to suspend from all masonic privileges certain Members of that
Lodge, who, it was alleged, had attended meetings of the Caledonian
Lodge. From this Letter it did not appear who the Members were
against whom these proceedings were intended ; but in another Letter
of same date, also laid before the Committee, addressed to Brother
Stivens, Junior Warden of this Lodge, the name of that Brother was
included in a list of those who were to be thus suspended.
" The Committee, after a very full deliberation, appeared to have but
one opinion of the merits of these communications. They therefore
remitted to a Sub-Committee to put their sentiments into proper form,
and thereafter to report their proceedings. The Sub-Committee met,
in consequence of the above remit, and gave in a report which, after
deliberate consideration, was unanimously approved of by the Com-
mittee, and the R.W. Master was requested to call the present
meeting for the purpose of laying that report before them.
" On the question being put from the chair, the Lodge was unani-
mously of opinion that the Report of the Committee should be read,
which was done accordingly.
"REPORT.
" That in common with many other Brethren we have viewed with
deep regret a system of innovation in the late proceedings of the
Grand Lodge of Scotland, which threatens the annihilation of the
Masonic Order in this country, and has already been productive of a
Schism in the Craft.
" That under the pretext of chastising a Right Worshipful Brother,
who, it was alleged, had endeavoured to create dissension among the
Brethren, there had followed a species of persecution hitherto un-
known in the annals of Masonry, and repugnant alike to the liberal
principles of the Order, and the independent feelings of a man.
" That at the period when the prosecution against the R.W. Master
of the Caledonian Lodge was instituted, the Canongate Kilwinning
Lodge refrained from taking any side in the contest ; nor did they feel
disposed to do so, until from the subsequent proceedings of the Grand
Lodge it evidently appeared that instead of originating in a desire of
preserving the dignity of the Order and the respect due to its head,
this prosecution arose from far different motives and was kept up,by
iS6 STIje GTanongate ^ilrotnninj IDobge, fio. 2.
party spirit and political cabal j and that in the vindictive career of
these inconsiderate proceedings, the common rights of a Brother
Mason, which had hitherto been held sacred, were broken in upon to
gratify the dictates of unrestrained revenge.
" That under such circumstances, and perceiving that the steps
which were now meditating in the Grand Lodge would lead rapidly to
confusion and disaster among the Masonic Order of the country, this
Ancient Order feel themselves called upon to lend their assistance in
arresting the progress of measures replete with such dangerous con-
sequences.
" That this Lodge have on aill occasions demonstrated a wish to
support the Grand Lodge, and would have been glad to have continued
the same attachment, and preserved the same respect which they have
had so long for it. When therefore the Sentence of the Grand Lodge
had been pronounced against Bro. Mitchell, suspending and interdicting
him from all masonic privileges, however much this sentence was
deemed by the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning severe and unwarranted,
and however absurd the interdiction of any Brother from all Masonic
privileges appeared to them to be, yet as this sentence had been pro- ,
nounced by such a tribunal, it was observed by this Lodge with be-
comirig attention.
" Had the proceedings of the Grand Lodge stopped here, the Lodge
Canongate Kilwinning, from an anxious desire to prevent any division
in the craft, might have acquiesced in this decision with silence tho'
not without regret. But unfortunately the sentence against Bro.
Mitchell can now be viewed in no other light than as the first step
towards the organization of a system of oppression which menaces the
happiness and social comfort of the Brethren at large.
" In prosecution of this system, this Lodge has beheld with painful
astonishment, the most impolitic and ill-judged attacks upon the
members of several Lodges of this city, upon the representatives of
some of the Provincial Lodges, and finally upon their Ancient Lodge,
in the person of its Junior Warden. This Brother has been denounced
in the Grand Lodge and threatened to be suspended from all Masonic
privileges, without any notice of such a step being communicated to
this Lodge, and without any other reason assigned, than that he had
gone to a convivial meeting of the Caledonian Lodge, as a private
visitor, and not as a representative of this Lodge.
" It is impossible to contemplate the oppressive and unwarrantable
conduct which has been displayed in these proceedings of the Grand
Lodge, without anticipating the total subversion of the Masonic Order,
and the humiliating enthralment of the Brethren. When we view the
present period of Masonic History, and contrast it with that mild, and
Jicjioltttuiiwi for CTottStberatioit of tlje %ot)Qt. 157
conciliatory temper which characterized former times, every Mason
must deprecate the change . which has been produced in the system,
by those who have proved themselves the inauspicious guardians of its
rights and independence. The growing evil of their ill-directed power
has at length become intolerable : its baneful influence has extended
itself to this Lodge, by its having been wantonly and grossly insulted
in the person of one of its Office-bearers ; and as by submitting to
this degradation it can only expect a repetition of similar insults, it
behoves the Brethren to consider what steps the violated rights of
Masonry, and the indignity offered to this Lodge, call upon them to
pursue.
" The committee do therefore propose the following resolutions for
the consideration of this Lodge : —
'1' imo. That the proceedings above detailed which are sanctioned
under the name of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, are of a nature so
totally different from anything that has yet occurred in the annals of
Masonry as to demand the serious attention of every Brother interested
m the prosperity of the Order.
" 2do. That these proceedings have been contemplated for some time
by this Lodge, with deep though silent regret ; and much as it felt in-
clined to remonstrate against such alarming innovations, it has hitherto
rested in the fond expectation of the extinction of that spirit which
has inspired them. The recent proceedings of the Grand Lodge,
however, and their apparent determination to persevere in measures
palpably hostile to the interest of the Craft, now call upon the
Brethren of this Ancient Lodge for their strenuous intervention to put
a stop to grievances so intolerable and unprecedented.
" 3tio. That although from the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of
Scotland it may possess the power of interdicting and prohibiting all
the Lodges holding under it from corresponding in their corporate
capacity with other Lodges that do not acknowledge its authority,
there is no such power vested in the Grand Lodge over their actions as
individuals, either by the Laws and Constitution of that Lodge, or by
the immemorial usage of Masons in this or any country.
"4to. That, on the contrary, it has ever been understood among
Masons, as the inherent privilege of every Brother of the Craft, to
frequent the Society of his Brethren and Friends in every situation,
and in every Lodge or Masonic meeting throughout the world, of
' whatever denomination and wherever constituted, whether by authority
of the Grand Lodge of Scotland or not, provided such Lodges or
meetings are tolerated by the laws of the land.
" 5to. That, accordingly, since the institution of the Grand Lodge
of Scotland in the year 1736 down to the present time, there is no one
158 ®l)e danongate ^ilroinning %oti%t, ^0. 2.
instance on record of a Brother being challenged or censUred for
frequenting, as a private visitor, any Lodge or meeting of the Brethren,
although such Lodges or meetings did not acknowledge the authority
of the Grand Lodge or had withdrawn their allegiance therefrom.
" 6to. That therefore the Lodge do consider the assumption of such
powers by the Grand Lodge over ^t personal conduct of individuals as
a stretch of authority far exceeding the Jurisdiction of any Masonic
Tribunal, as a step altogether unprecedented in the annals of Masonry,
equally destructive to the harmony and repugnant to the feelings of
Masons.
" ymo. That in order to manifest the abhorrence with which this
Lodge contemplates the approach of a system, which thus threatens
the dissolution of every sacred tie that connects the Brethren of the
Craft, and to preserve as much as in its power the purity of the Order,
the Lodge is driven with reluctance to the only remedy now left, of
■ withdrawing itself from the present Grand, Lodge.
"8vo. That it is the opinion of this Lodge that a meeting of all the
sister Lodges who approve of the principles of these resolutions ought
to be held for the purpose of electing a Grand Master and other
Officers-bearers, or of adopting such measures as may appear to them
to be most conducive to the interests and prosperity of the Masonic
Order.
" Upon these Resolutions being read, Brother - Robert Jameson,
after expressing his entire dissent from their spirit, requested leave to
protest against any vote of the Lodge that might be passed in appro-
bation of them. Brother Lang, Worshipful Depute Master, then
moved that the Report and Resolutions be adopted by the Lodge,
which motion was seconded by Brother Harrower. Thereafter Bro.
Jameson moved that the Report and Resolutions be dismissed, which
motion was seconded by Bro. Donaldson. The vote was then put,
Adopt or Dismiss, when, by the joint report of the tellers, Brothers
Ballantine and Jameson, there appeared
"For Adopting the Report and Resolutions, 57
" For Dismissing them, . . . . 15
" Majority, 42
protest iigainjft tijt Jlcsiolutionjs. 159
" Brother Jameson then entered his Protest in name of himself and
the fourteen Members who adhered to him, against the Resolutions
which the Lodge had thus adopted, and requested a copy of these
Resolutions, which the Secretary was directed to furnish him with
accordingly.
" Upon Bro. Lang's motion, it was resolved that these Minutes
should be printed, and copies thereof transmitted to all the sister
Lodges in the Kingdom.
" The thanks of the Lodge were then voted to the Members of the
Committee for the attention they had shown to the interests of this
Lodge, and the welfare of the Masonic Order. . . .
"The above-mentioned Protest by Brother Jameson and his ad-
herents is as follows, vizt. : —
" WE, the Subscribers, Protest and Dissent against the Resolutions
of the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning at their meeting of 23rd June,
for the reasons following : —
" 1st. Because it is necessary for the preservation of Masonry that
a power of controul over the Members of the Craft should somewhere
exist, and that this power cannot elsewhere be placed than in the
Grand Lodge, which is the Representative of the whole Order, chosen
by a fair and general suffrage. A supreme right of decision in all
Masonic questions has accordingly been hitherto acknowledged to
reside in the Grand Lodge by all the Lodges holding under it, and
every Brother is at his admission taken bound to submit to its man-
dates and decrees. In particular, the Lodge of Canongate Kilwinning,
at one of the first communications after the institution of the Grand
Lodge, applied for and received a confirmation and ratification of the
Charter she had formerly held from the Mother Kilwinning, under the
express declaration that she should be bound by the Regulations of
the Grand Lodge then made, or to be made in future, and to these
Regulations she has since paid dutiful attention.
" 2nd. Because wherever authority exists there must also exist a
i6o S;i)e danongate ^iltoinning JDoJlge, ^o. 2.
power of enforeing that authority. The Grand Lodge must therefore
have the right to punish such Brethren as may depart from the prin-
ciples of Maspnry, and, if necessary, to expel them from thd Craft,
and to interdict them from participating in Masonic privileges. Were
the doctrine maintained in these Resolutions to be sanctioned, the
Craft would soon have cause to regret the loss of that purity which
has hitherto been its boast; and no Brother, however unworthy and
however undeserving of Masonic privileges, could be excluded from
their participation. We can draw no line , of distinction betwixt
obedience to the Grand Lodge due by Lodges in their corporate
capacity and that due by individuals who compose these corporations.
The same obedience which is due by the Lodge as a body, must be
due by every Member who forms a part of that body, otherwise this
absurdity would follow — that tlie whole, as individuals, might lawfully
and properly do that which, if done. by the whole as a body, would be
essentially wrong.
''3rd. Because it is evidently inconsistent with the plainest prin-
ciples of policy for the minority in any numerous and well-regulated
society to withdraw, through motives of temporary dissatisfaction,
from all connection with the majority. It is impossible to set bounds
to a spirit of division and schism when this is improperly introduced,
and unless timeously suppressed in the present case, it obviously must
lead to anarchy and confusion in the Craft, to the annihilation of that
brotherly love which ought to be the characteristic of Masonry, if not
the utter contempt and destruction of the Order.
"4th. Because we are of opinion that the Grand Lodge, in all the
measures lately adopted, has been actuated by a general regard to the
welfare of Masonry. We must express our strong disapprobation of
the violent and disrespectful language of these Resolutions, which
attribute to that body motives of ' party spirit and political cabal,' as
well as of ' unrestrained resentment arid unwarranted revenge,' against
an individual. It appears to us to be perfectly impossible that a body
so numerous as the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and composed of
Members so various in their relations to society, could be actuated
'^tAfiona foe ^rotejittng. i6i
by personal resentment to any individual, while we think it clear that,
in all its proceedings, the Grand Lodge has shown itself particularly
anxious to guard the Craft against the unlawful influence of political
discussions. Were any confirmation wanted on this head, it would be
found in the cordial approbation which the proceedings of our Grand
Lodge have received from the Grand Lodge of England, a body
which cannot surely be suspected of being influenced by any other
motive but the true interest of Masonry.
" Sth. Because if the measures complained of in these Resolutions
are ' of a nature totally different from anything that has yet occurred
in the annals of Masonry,' the reason is that the offences which called
for the adoption of these measures have been hitherto unprecedented
and unknown amongst Brethren.
" 6th. Because we are of opinion that the Lodge, by withdrawing
from the protection of the Grand Lodge, will lose its title to the legal
toleration which the Act of the 39 Geo. 3d., cap. ^g, extends only to
Lodges who act ' in conformity to the Rules prevailing among the
Societies or Lodges of Free Masons in this Kingdom,' and because
the Craft has been assured, upon the high authority of the Illustrious
Patron of their Order, that upon no other terms than the strict main-
tenance of the authority of the Grand Lodge, will Government now
permit the existence of Lodges.
" Lastly. Because we do not consider the vote given upon these
Resolutions as a fair test of the general sense of this Lodge. On a
question so important to the interests of the Lodge it was unquestion-
ably incumbent on the Office-bearers, not only to give timely notice
to all the Members, but also to impart to them the general nature of
the measures to be proposed. But in the present case the notice
given was shorter than that of the usual monthly meetings, and the
proposed measures were so industriously concealed from those likely
to oppose them that the protesters were altogether ignorant of their
nature till they heard the Resolutions read in the Lodge. In conse-
quence of such precautions, no opportunity was given for taking the
real opinion of the Lodge. As many respectable Members have since
31
i6i Sl)c elanottgatc ^tltuinning |!.ol)ge, fio. 2.
declared to thd protesters their surprise at what had passed, and that
had they been aware of the Resolutions to be proposed, they would
have given them their most decided opposition." (Signed by fourteen
Members.)
On 24th June, Brother Lawson was again elected R.W. Master, and
deputations from Mary's Chapel, Royal Arch, St. Andrew',s, Caledo-
nian, and St. David's Lodges attended at the celebration of St, John
the Baptist ; and at the meeting of loth November six Members of
Mary's Chapel, two of St. David's, one of Canongate and Leith, one
of the Caledonian, and one of Edinburgh St. Andrew's Lodge were
affiliated as Members of this Lodge. ,
On 23rd February the Minute records that " The Lodge was visited
by several Brethren from the different Lodges who haye withdrawn
themselves from the Grand Lodge." .... The usual monthly
meetings were regularly held, at which various new entrants were
received, and on 24th June the R.W. Brother Lawson and all the old
Office-bearers " whom he was much indebted to for their support in the
measures which had been adopted by the Lodge," were re-elected.
" Bro. Alex. Jaffi-ay, Past Master, rose and stated to the meeting that
several Members of this Lodge had acted very improperly by attend-
ing meetings and supporting the election of a Lodge calling them-
selves the Canongate Kilwinning, and had on many occasions behaved
in a disrespectful manner towards this Lodge, vizt. : " — (Here follow
the names of seventeen Brethren, including Brother Jameson.) " He
therefore moved that the above-mentioned members be in future
declared incapable of holding any office in this Lodge, and be deprived
of having any vote either as to the-Election of Office-bearers or other-
wise until they make satisfactory apologies for their conduct," which
motion was seconded " and unanimously approved of by a numerous
meeting of the Lodge."
Overtures for a re-union were made on behalf of the Seceders,
February 3rd, 1812 ; and by the appointment of a special Committee,
to consider the proposals for a reconciliation, the Grand Lodge met
?ic=Enion rotti) (Srani l^obgt, 163
them more than half-way. But although this led to the appointment
of a similar committee by the associated Lodges, the breach was not
healed until 1813, on March 31st of which year the sentences of sus-
pension and expulsion (excepting in the case of Dr. Mitchell) were
removed, and the seceding Lodges returned to their former allegiance.
The Grand Lodge Minute of this date declared the whole offices in
the various Lodges . . . to be vacant from this date, and at the
disposal and appointment of the Brethren at large of the said respec-
tive Lodges without distinction. But in order that the new Elections
might be made with all that solemnity and dignity befitting so im-
portant an occasion, it was unanimously enacted that the respective
Elections should take place within the Free Masons Hall.
It was also unanimously enacted that, " at each of these respective
Elections, the Acting Grand Master, whom failing the Substitute
Grand Master, and two other constituent members of the Grand
Lodge, together with the Grand Secy, and Grand Clerk, should pre-
side and act, and that the Elections should be inserted in the Grand
Lodge Books, of which copies of the Minutes of the respective
Elections, together with these Resolutions and Minutes, shall be in-
serted by the Grand Clerk in the Minute Books of the various
Lodges."
The following is copy of the Minutes relating to No. 2, in the Books
of Canongate Kilwinning : —
"At an adjourned quarterly communication of the Grand Lodge of
Scotland, held in the Free Masons' Hall, Edinburgh, the Eighth day
of April 1813.
" Present :—
" R.W. William IngHs, Esq., Substitute Grand Master.
"R.W. Bro. Houston Rigg Brown, (St. David's) S.G.W.pJ.
" R.W. Bro. Black, (Roman Eagle) S.G.W./.^.
" R.W. Bro. Alex. Lawrie, Grand Secy.
" R.W. Bro. James Bartram, Grand Clerk.
" The Lodge being opened in due form, reading the Minutes of the
meeting of the 31st March was dispensed with,
1 64 ^I)t ffianongate l^iltDtntiing |Lobge, ^o. 2.
" The Brethren of the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning, being met in
terms of the Resolution of the Grand Lodge of 31st March. The
Substitute Gr. Mr. requests these Brethren to proceed with the Elec-
tion of officers to fill the different situations in- the Canongate Kil-
winning Lodge, when Bro. John Lawson proposed Bro. Alex. Jaffray
to be Master of that Lodge, which was unanimously agreed to." (The
other officers were all re-elected.)
" The Substitute Gr. Mr. having administered the oaths in common
form to the different Office-bearers present, and approved of the above
Election of Office-bearers for the Canoiigate Kilwinning Lodge
accordingly."
At the end of the Minutes relating to the various Lodges inserted
in Canongate Kilwinning Books, the Gi^and Clerk writes : —
" What is contained on this and the Sixteen preceding pages is a
true and faithful copy of the Minutes and Resolutions of the Grand
Lodge of Scotland of 31st March 181 3, and of the Election of Office-
bearers of the Lodge is (already named with dates), all as extracted
from the Grand Lodge Books, and engrossed in the Sederunt Book
of Canongate Kilwinning Lodge, by
"J. A. BARTRAM, Gd. Clk"
The quarrel between Grand Lodge and the Secessionists, which
had thus fortunately terminated, at one time assumed alarming symp-
toms for the subsequent prosperity of the Craft. Keen litigation was
carried on for a considerable time, the Grand Lodge having applied
to the civil power to interdict the seceding Lodges from holding
meetings, and in 18 10 the following judgment of the Court of Session
was given in the case of CANONGATE Kilwinning : —
"Edinburgh, 7th July 18 10. — The Lords having resumed considera-
tion of this process and advised the mutual memorials for the parties,
in respect the suspenders insist in the character of office-bearers of
a self-constituted society which is not entitled to the privileges of a
corporation, repel the reasons of suspension, refuse the interdict, and
decern.— C. Hope, I.P.D."
(JFjittmates for fainting tlje ILoJige, etc. 165
[The Right Honourable Charles Hope, of Gran ton. Lord Justice-
Clerk, was initiated in Canongate Kilwinning on 4th March 1784.J
Past Master Brother Alexander Jaffray was again elected R.W.
Master on 24th June 1813, and the whole of the old Office-bearers
were continued.
On 24th June 1814 George Simson was elected R.W.M. in succes-
sion to Brother Jaffray, who filled the Chair for several years. At a
general Committee meeting held on 8th November the " Secretary laid
before the meeting estimates and plans which he had procured as
directed." The following were accepted, and orders given to proceed
with the work immediately, viz.: —
1. Estimates for completely painting the Lodge orna-
ments, ceiling, and cove, &c. . . • ;£' 1 5 1 5 o
2. Covering tables with green cloth, two new chairs
for Wardens, and sundry small jobs which cannot
be included till finished — in all not to exceed .25 00
3. For two window curtains, painting in the War-
dens' recess, cleaning the painting of St. Clair of
Rosslyn, &c., &c., not to exceed . . .1000
4. For cleaning and lackering the chandeliers, &c.,
amounting to . . . . • 3 3 o
Several other small matters were suggested, besides
repairing and tuning the organ, which were
agreed to.
The Minute of this Committee Meeting winds up thus : — " There-
after the following were entered apprentices, viz. : " Here follows the
names of four gentlemen.
On 15 th November the Lodge met for the purpose of visiting the
Lodge of St. David's, but before proceeding there five apprentices
were admitted, and on the 29th of this month another meeting was
held for the purpose of initiating gentlemen previous to the Festival
of St. Andrew, when ten apprentices were admitted and nineteen
passed and raised. The usual ceremonies took place next day at the
1 66 ®l^e (ffauottgatt liilTOinning l^obge, ^o. 2.
election of the Grand Office-bearers, and on 20th December another
congratulatory visit was paid to St. David's. On the Festival of St.
John the Evangelist the Lodge met again for the purpose of visiting
the " Lodge of St. David's, where they always met with the warmest
reception."
As mention has so often been made of St. David's Lodge, a few of
the many events in its history, culled from its own records, may be
noted here. " On 2nd March 1738, a Commission was registered in
the books of the Grand Lodge authorising William Montgomery,
'Grand Master Substitute,' to constitute Brother Smart and
the other separating Brethren into a new Lodge called Canongate
Kilwinning from Leith," and it is recorded that Brother Mont-
gomery, Master of the Leith Kilwinning, often visited the new Lodge.
At a meeting held on 9th April 1740, "it was moved by Brother
Atkin, Junior Warden p.t., that Brother David Buchanan his health
should be drunk, whom wee had in last Munday's News to have been
the man who first gott in at the iron port of Portobello* when taken,
and did place the British collours there ; which was unanimously
agreed to by the Lodge, and his health drank with three claps and
three hussas." 0" loth October 1744 the meagre attendance is attri-
buted to the " Judgement. Weather " then prevailing. No meetings
were held between 24th June 1745 and the same date in 1746. On
27th December 1752 twenty-two members subscribed £\6 for the
Public Works in Edinburgh, and on 22nd June next year the Lodge
removed from Canongate to Shoemakers' Hall. Previous to this they
often met in St. John's Chapel, and the hall of the Thistle Lodge. On
24th June 175 s a deputation went to Canongate and Leith Leith and
* The news arrived in this country on 13th March 1740 that Porto-Bello
in the Isthmus of Darien was taken from the Spaniards by the British with
six ships under Admiral Vernon. The Vernon Kilwinning Lodge, so named
after the Admiral, instituted 1741, sprang from Canongate and Leith. Its
designation was afterwards changed to St. Giles, and in 1779 joined Canon-
gate Kilwinning. Vide p. 103.
loint |?lecttiig of all tl)e (fliinbttrgl) |loJ)gc?. 167
Canongate, but were refused admission on account of " Lodge not
constituted ; " and on a further desire to be admitted, the reply given
was "private business." They then visited their mother Lodge, "and
were received with extraordinary marks of Maternal Love." The
name was altered to St. David's on 2nd August 1756, and on 12th
December 1757 a new Lodge-room was consecrated in Hyndford's
Close by Charles Hamilton Gordon, Grand Master. On 12th Sep-
tember 1757 ten guineas were voted to the " Edinburgh Society for
the Encouragement of Arts, Science, Manufactures, and Agriculture,"
as follows: — ";^S, Ss. to the person who shall best explain, and by
proper experiments ascertain, the nature and properties of quick-lime
as a cement in building." And £s> Ss- " to persons who shall best
explain the nature of the freestone liable to blow, that is, to crumble
down, and be dissolved on being exposed to the air, with the means of
knowing such stones in the quarry." On i6th March 1762, " Disserta-
tions " were given in and submitted to a select committee to report.
It may be added that the date on which Sir Walter Scott, Bart., was
initiated in St. David's Lodge was on 2nd March 1801.
At the monthly meeting on sth January 18 15, deputations were
received from several Lodges, including one from the " New Edin-
burgh Kilwinning, R. VV. Brother Nisbet." Meetings, at which
numerous initiations took place, were held on the 17th of this
month, and on the 3rd and 9th of Februarj-. At the latter some
very interesting and important announcements were made, and
the following is a copy of part of the Minute : — " The R.W.
Master (before closing the Lodge), stated that having had occasional
meetings with some of the Masters of the Edinburgh Lodges, he sug-
gested the propriety of the several Lodges in Edinburgh holding a
joint meeting. That in consequence of this suggestion a meeting was
called of the Masters of the Edinburgh Lodges in Free Masons' Hall,
which was fully attended by the Masters of the different Lodges,
when it was unanimously resolved tliat the different Lodges after-
mentioned should suspend their general meetings for the ensuing
1 68 S;i)e danongate ^tltomtting ILoiige, ^o. 2.
month of February, and in place thereof that a general meeting should
be held in Free Masons' Hall upon the 17th February, whereof the
Master of the Catlongate Kilwinning and the Master of St, Luke's
were requested to give intimation to the Secretary of the Grand
Lodge of Scotland, and to request that the Great Room in the
Masonic Hall should be allotted for the purpose of the meeting;
which they accordingly did, and were instructed to report that the
Hall would be freely granted. The R.W. Master further stated
that this general meeting would have several important objects in
view. In the first place ... a tendency to draw closer the ties of
true Brotherly Regard and Masonic intercourse ; 2nd. In some
measure it would compensate for visits of Grand Lodge, which, until
of late years, had been frequently paid, as by its constitution it was
bound to do ; . . . and 3rd, It would relieve the officers and Members
of the different Lodges of a great deal of laborious, although no
doubt pleasing, duty, of visiting the sister Lodges, owing to the sus-
pension of their monthly meetings. It was then stated that the
Masters of the different Lodges agreed that the Master of Mary's
Chapel (R.W. Brother Robertson), as the oldest Lodge in Edinburgh,
should take the chair, &c., supported by his own Wardens. That due
intimation should be given to the Brethren at large of the intended
meeting by advt. in the several Edinr. Newspapers, and to the
Brethren of this Lodge in particular, by Printed Card."
7th February. This being the evening appointed for the " General
Meeting of the Edinburgh Lodges, and the Lodge being duly con-
stituted, it was reported that " seven gentlemen had joined as appren-
tices. The Committee was appointed to meet upon the 8th June
next for the purpose of considering a state of the general view of the
funds and debts of the Lodge, and of the accounts of expenditure
upon repairs and other matters.
The Lodge was then duly closed, when the Members joined the
sister Lodges in the Freemasons' Hall, where they passed a most
harmonious evening, " and the general sentiment seemed strongly in
favour of a continuance of such meetings." 1
€lotl)tnig ^tatnpeb ratt^ tl)e Iron of ti)e |Lobge. 169
It was the opinion of the Committee that the repairs, improvements,
and embellishments on the Lodge-room had been executed not only
with great taste, but with becoming economy, and they unanimously
approved of the Treasurer's contracts with the tradesmen.
" It was unanimously agreed, and the Treasurer was instructed to
order five dozen of plain clothing, to be stamped in front with the
Iron of the Lodge. But as a set of dress clothing would be very
expensive, it was suggested that the present might be cleaned and
repaired, so as to serve until the funds of the Lodge were in a more
opulent state."
The R.W.M. then signified his wish not to be again put in nomina-
tion for the Chair, and submitted the name of George Burnet,
Advocate, as a Brother qualified to succeed him in such a manner as to
ensure the harmony and happiness of the Brethren and the respecta-
bility of the Lodge. A Sub-Committee was then appointed to wait
upon Brother Burnet, and intimate to him this proposition ; and at an
adjourned meeting of the General Committee, held on 24th June, it
was reported by the Sub-Committee "that Brother Burnet had,
with expressions of gratitude, agreed to his being put in nomination
. . . and if he should meet with the approbation of the Brethren
to take the Chair at the celebrating the Anniversary of St. John.
"The Committee directed the Treasurer to purchase from the
Funds of the Lodge a new Minute-Book, and to open the same with
the insertion of the Minutes of the Election about to take place.
" This Book is accordingly closed.
" GEO. SIMSON, M.
" P. TAYLOR, Secretary."
22
CHAPTER XII.
(•>EORGE BURNET, Advocate, was elected and installed
l\n as R. W. Master on 24th June 1815, and the usual
^^ routine business having been disposed of, the meeting,
which " was numerous and respectable," was closed in proper form. .
On 27th July " a very select meeting took place," when seven
gentlemen were entered and passed, and other eight raised. "The
meeting 'was not numerous, but very respectable."
The names of nine gentlemen who were initiated, passed, and
raised at various meetings prior to i4th September were reported on
that date. "The R.W. Master then stated that this meeting had
been called for the purpose of initiating those gentlemen who were
anxious to join in the Grand Procession at the laying of the founda-
tion stones of the Regent Bridge and New Jail, and he requested
that those Brethren who intended to join this Lodge in the Procession
should meet here upon Tuesday first, the 19th instant, at half-past
10 o'clock a.m. precisely, and from thence to walk up to the Parlia-
ment Square at 1 1 o'clock, where they would join the Grand Lodge
and Sister Lodges. He also stated that a Subscription Paper was
lying before him for such of the Brethren who wished to dine together
here after the Procession, and that Brother William Young had en-
gaged to "furnish a good dinner, Porter, Beer, and Drams, with a
bottle of good Runi Punch, for 6s. each."
The Minute of 19th September contains an elaborate account of
the procession and laying of the foundation stones of Regent Bridge
and New Jail. The following are extracts, and to show the import-
/ottniatton ^tontg of fltjmt ^ribge anb fitxo |atl. 171
ance with which the Lodge Office-bearers at this period were assigned
their various posts of precedence, the opening paragraph of the
Minute is copied verbatim : — " The Brethren having assembled in the
Lodge at the hour appointed, the Right Worshipful Master stated
that the greater part of the Office-bearers being at this season of the
year in the country, it would of course fall upon some of the Brethren
present to fill the vacant offices, when the following were chosen to
fill these offices : — Bro. Horn, Junior Warden, to be Senior Warden ;
Bro. W. Smith to be Junior Warden, Bro. Birrell (Secy.) to be Past
Master ; Bro. Dr. Abm. Armstrong to be Depute Master, Bro. J.
Welch to be Sub. Master, Bro. Traill to be Treasurer, and Bro. Alex.
Paterson to be Secretary." ... At 1 2 o'clock the Grand Lodge was
opened in the High Church Aisle by the Right W. William Inglis,
Esq., Sub. G. M. A communication was received from the Right
Honourable the Lord Provost that the Magistrates and Council, with
the Parliamentary Commissioners, were assembled at the City Cham-
bers and ready to start. The Procession contained upwards of 2500
persons, and having reached the site of the Regent Bridge the
"King's AntJiem" was performed, the different bodies present all
standing uncovered. " Hail, Masonry !" "wsls then sung, after which
the Right Worshipful and Rev. Dr. Lee, Grand Chaplain, offered
up a most impressive Prayer. Thereafter the "Grand Master
directed the proper officers to place in the cavity of the stone the
bottles containing coins of the present reign, &c., &c., &c." " On, on,
my dear Brethreti ! " znA the "Mason's Antluni" were sung in full
chorus. The Grand Master, resuming his place on the platform, in
course of a " short but impressive speech," expressed his gratification
at having the honour on such an occasion to represent His Royal
Highness the Prince of Wales, Patron of the Order, and Regent of
these realms, and in dedicating to his name the magnificent structure
they were about to raise, which would commemorate their gratitude
for that happy era when universal peace was at length restored to
Europe. He concluded by congratulating the Lord Provost, the
Right Hon. Sir John Marjoribanks, of Lees, Baronet, M.P,, on the
zeal he had uniformly and successfully displayed. The Procession
then " moved off to lay the foundation ston? of the New Jail
on the Calton Hill," when a similar ceremony was observed, " while
the Brethren and spectators now joined in full chorus, and rent the
air with loud and reiterated acclamations." The Procession of the
Lodges and Brethren returned to the Parliament Square in an inverted
order, and joined the Grand Lodge in the High Church Aisle, where
they were addressed by the Substitute Grand Master; and after a
reply had been returned by the acting Grand Master ufader His
Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, viz. the Most W. and Right
Hon. James, Earl of Fife, &c., &c.. Grand Lodge was closed in
" ample form."
" According to appointment, the Brethren assembled in the Lodge-
room at 4 o'clock, and the Lodge being duly opened by the Right
Worshipful Master and blessing asked, the Brethren were furnished
with a plentiful supply of provision and ammunition. . . . The
company was as usual very respectable, and after enjoying the after-
noon with that harmony becoming Masons, the R.W. Master closed
the Lodge in regular form."
Various meetings were held prior to St. Andrew's Day, at which
initiations, &c., to the extent of some twenty-four, took place, and on
30th November the Minute ends thus : — " The Grand Lodge was not
closed till a late (or rather, early) hour ; the cause of which was
owing to a Subscription being set on foot in the Hall, for the assist-
ance of some unfortunate persons who, by reason of the great pressure
towards the close of the Procession, had fallen into an area in Blair
Street, by means of the iron railing giving way. A very liberal Sub-
scription was obtained for their relief.''
At the meeting of ist February 18 16, it was reported that Mr.
Benson of the Theatre Royal, and other nineteen gentlemen, were
entered, "and owing to the great turn-out of the Brethren, Depu-
tations were prevented from visiting us." At the immediately
succeeding meeting, 7th March, the names of other fourteen entries
are given, and it may be here remarked that at every Monthly
(SAxlitat Election of peaconti tecorbtb. 173
meeting during the course of the next few years, from ten to thirty-
initiations were reported as having taken place at special meetings
held for that purpose. The Minute of this date winds up as follows :
— " The Lodge was solemnly closed after spending the evening in the
usual affectionate and Brotherly manner for which this Lodge is
particularly conspicuous." On 4th April, being the last meeting of
the season, the Lodge was visited amongst others by " R.W. Bro.
Ferrie of the Lodge of the gallant 42nd Regiment, holden of the
Grand Lodge of Scotland, and R.W. Br. Wylie of the Lodge of the
gallant 42nd Regiment, holden of the Grand Lodge of Ireland," who
were assumed Hon. Members together with the Masters of St.
Luke's, St. James', New Edinburgh Kilwinning, and Union Dun-
fermline.
"The Committee at their meeting this evening authorised the
Secretary to pay to Widow Strachan (whose late husband filled the
office of Grand Steward in this Lodge for a considerable period) the
sum of Thirty shillings, to be paid by weekly instalments." Various
directions and regulations were drawn up and recorded at the Com-
mittee meeting of nth June anent the financial affairs of the Lodge,
and under heading 6th it is minuted that " they do further report
their opinion that the Treasurer should be enjoined to advance out of
the first ready funds in his hands the requisite sum to enable the
Right Worshipful Master to remit to the Secretary of the Committee
for the erection of a monument to the memory of Burns, the sum of
Twenty Guineas, voted by the General Meeting in June last year,
and to make up the deficiency from the proper funds of the Lodge if
the Subscriptions do not amount to that sum. (Sd.) Geo. Burnet."
On 24th June Mr. Burnet was re-elected R.W.M., and it is note-
worthy that this is the earliest date on which the election of Deacons
is recorded. Four French masons were assumed members, and a
deputation from St. David's attended, headed by Sir Patrick Walker
of Coates, the R.W. Master. The clauses 2, 4, 5, and 7 of the Minute
of the Committee Meeting of the nth current were ordered to be
printed, and a copy sent to every member of the Lodge " with all
174 S|)e elanottgate ^ilrotnntng ILobge, ^o. 2.
possible despatch." The document in question contained an appeal
to Members to cash up, and a notice that all initiation fees be paid
forthwith.
The Minute of St. Andrew's Day ends as follows : " The Proces-
sion was conducted with the greatest regularity. The night being
very fine the streets were crowded to excess, but the access to
the Grand Lodge was made perfectly eiasy by the 2nd Battalion of
the 92nd Regiment lining the streets. There were upwards of seventy
Members of this Lodge joined in the Procession."
The Lodge having been duly constituted on 19th December by
the R.W. Master, he stated to the Brethren that this meeting was
expressly called for the purpose of initiating some of the gentlemen
belonging to the suite of the Grand Duke Nicholas of Russia, pre-
sently on a visit to Scotland. The following were then entered,
passed, and raised, viz. : —
Captain Nicholas Mausey, "j Aides -de - Camp to General
Lieutenant Basil Peroffsky, J Kutusofif.
Dr. William Archibald Crichton, Physician to the Grand Duke
Nicholas.
Numerously attended meetings were held during this period, and
on 3rd April 18 17, when several deputations were present, "the har-
mony of the meeting was greatly disturbed by the riotous and un-
masonic conduct of a Brother. . . . However, the Brethren being
determined not to submit to such interruption, he was, by orders of
the Chair, put out of the Lodge-room. Thereafter . . . and on
many other occasions (which were well known to the Brethren)
. . . a motion was unanimously carried that he be expelled this
Lodge, and the customary intimation to be given by the Secretary.
Brother Jaffray then moved that the thanks of the Brethren present
should be given to the Right Worshipful Master, George Burnet, for
the moderate and gentlemanly, and at last, when it became necessary,
the firm conduct he pursued, which motion was approved of by
general acclamation."
On 24th June, when George Burnet was re-elected Master, it was
Supreme 6ranli $osal ^ttlf ®!)ftpter of Scotland. 175
''intimated to the Brethren that the Committee had resolved that a
die for a medal should be struck, and that such of the Brethren who
wished to have one might leave their names with the Secretary, who
would order them to be ready in a few weeks. Dues, with name
engraved, los. 6d."
It was in St. John's Chapel, on 28th August 1817, that the Supreme
Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Scotland was instituted by the repre-
sentatives of thirty-four chapters, at a General Convocation of the
Order. At the Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge in Novem-
ber, the following motion was carried by a majority of 155 to 27:
"That from and after the 27th of December next (1818), no person
holding an official situation in any Masonic body which sanctions
higher degrees than those of St. John's Masonry, shall be entitled to
sit, act, or vote in the Grand Lodge of Scotland." A General Meeting
of the Committee of Canongate Kilwinning was held on 17th Novem-
ber 1817, when sixteen Members attended. "R.W. Brother Burnet
stated that a resolution had been lately passed by the Grand Lodge
of Scotland, declaring that all Members of that body who held offices
in the Chapters of the Royal Arch and Knight Templars should be
incapacitated from being Members of the Grand Lodge. The Right
Worshipful added that he was a Member of the Royal Arch Chapter,
and as by this vote he was afraid he might be considered as deprived
of representing the Canongate Kilwinning in the Grand Lodge, he
thought it his duty to call the present meeting, and to ask their
opinion what, in this unprecedented attempt to deprive him of his
rights as Master of this Lodge, they thought the most desirable line
of conduct for him to pursue ?
" The meeting, without giving any opinion on the proceedings 01
the Grand Lodge, took this opportunity of expressing the high sense
they entertained of the Right Worshipful Master's strenuous exertions
towards the respectability and dignity of the Lodge, and their anxious
desire that he should still continue to preside over it. They certainly
cannot but regret that any resolution should have been passed by the
Grand Lodge that could create any dubiety in the line of conduct to
176 Sl)e Canongate l^tlxointttnj l^obje, fCo. 2.
be adopted by the Right Worshipful Master, but they confidently
hope that their unanimous opinion above expressed will induce him
to continue in the Chair of a Lodge which confessedly is now, both in
numbers and respectability, the first that graces the roll of the Grand
Lodge."
At a meeting of the Lodge on the 2Sth of this month, the Committee
Minute of the 17th was read, and "unanimously approved of, the
Lodge participating most cordially in the feelings of the Committee
towards their much esteemed and respected Right Worshipful Master,
as well as their sentiments of the tendency of the above resolution of
the Grand Lodge. They do most earnestly enjoin the Right Wor-
shipful Master, and such of the Brethren as are Members pf the
Grand Lodge, to take every constitutional measure to obtain a repeal
of that resolution, and to report to the Lodge (at a meeting to be
called for that purpose) the result of their efforts, that the Lodge may
thereupon consider what it is incumbent on them to do for the
preservation and the purity of Masonic principles and their own
dignity." '
" The Right Worshipful Master then, in a very feeling and impres-
sive manner (and at great length), informed the Brethren that owing
to the late great and melancholy Iqss which this nation had sustained
by the death of the ever-to-be-lamented PRINCESS CHARLOTTE of
Wales, the Grand Lodge had come to the resolution of dispensing
with holding the usual Festival on St. Andrew's Day, and instead
thereof, intended to devote part of that day in humbling themselves
before Almighty God, and he trusted that this Lodge would join
most cordially with Grand Lodge on this occasion ... in full
uniform ... in procession to the High Church, where the R.W.
and Reverend Dr. Lee, Grand Chaplain, would deliver an appropriate
address to the Brethren."
The Secretary then reported the initiations of twenty-four gentle-
men since last meeting of St. John the Baptist, and at the following
meeting on 7th January 1818, a list of twenty-one new Members is
recorded, and the Masters and Wardens of several of the Edinburgh
®ra:nb l^odge, ^ogal |lrct), anb $ntgl)t templar;;. 177
Lodges elected Honorary Members, "A General Meeting of the
Office-bearers, Members of the Committee, and individual Members
of the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning " was held in Young's Tavern on
Monday the 2d day of February 1818, "for the purpose of taking the
steps necessary for our Right Worshipful Master to adopt at the
Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Scotland which
was to be held this evening. . . . After some discussion it was
moved and seconded that he should appear in his place in Grand
Lodge, and if objected to, that he should protest, in name of this
Lodge, against their R.W. Master being excluded from a seat in the
Grand Lodge." An amendment was moved, " That in order to avoid
all disputes with Grand Lodge, Brother Burnet be requested to resign
his situation in the Royal Arch." The motion was carried by a
" great " majority. The minority entered a protest, which is recorded
at length, and signed by seven Members. On 5th February the
R.W.M. reported that he had attended the Quarterly Communica-
tion of Grand Lodge, and found it necessary to take a protest against
their proceedings in name of this Lodge. After making some further
statements regarding the harsh steps the Grand Lodge had adopted
against all Office-bearers of the higher degrees in Masonry, he recom-
mended that full consideration of the matter be adjourned till another
meeting of the Lodge. On this occasion visitations were received
from Mary's Chapel and many other Lodges. The Minutes of 2d
and sth current were read at a Special Meeting held in Young's
Tavern on 9th February, when it was moved and seconded that the
R.W.M. " should give up his situation as an Office-bearer in the Royal
Arch Chapter, in respect that they are desirous he should remain
their Master." Thereafter an amendment was moved by Sir Patrick
Walker (R.W.M. of St. David's), "that in place of requesting Brother
Burnet to resign the Royal Arch office, a representation be made to
Grand Lodge against the law which has caused the present discussion
signed by all Members of the Lodge), couched in the most mild and
conciliatory terms, and requesting that they will consider the whole
matter and communicate with the Grand Lodges of England and
*3
178 ^T^t (fTanonsate ^tltoinntng |!.ot)ge, ^0. 2.
Ireland. , . . and establish the acknowledged orders of Masonry
on the best footing, and also that a statement of the grievances of
which the Masons of Scotland complain accompany the representa-
tion . . . which amendment was carried by an immense majo-
rity." The proposer of the motion recorded his protest, which was
signed by seven others, and the meeting then appointed a committee
of Brethren (who were not Royal Arch Masons) for the purpose
of drawing up a representation. The records do not show what
result accrued from this representation to Grand Lodge, or what
answer, if any, was received ; but considering that overtures to the
same effect, emanating from other Lodges at this period, were sum-
marily rejected, it is assumed that a similar fa!te met this " representa-
tion." Although the motion regarding Higher Degrees has not been
rescinded, it is evident that Grand Lodge soon after this set , aside
the enactment relative to officials holding office in any order " other
than St. John's Masonry." Canongate Kilwinning Royal Arch
Chapter is No. 56 on the Roll of the Supreme Grand Chapter, and
was instituted in 1835.
The last meeting of the season was held on i6th March in " For-
tune's Tavern, Princes Street," and the Minute opens thus :— " Before
supper the Right Worshipful Master constituted the Lodge in the
usual solemn manner. ... An excellent Band that attended
played some airs suitable for the occasion ; most of the professional
singers in town visited the Lodge on this occasion. . . . The
health of the R.W. Master was proposed and drank to with un-
bounded applause (which he well merited), and for which he made a
suitable reply. From the good humour and happiness that prevailed
every one seemed inclined to keep up the meeting until an early
hour, and it was not until the light had dispelled the darkness that
the meeting was adjourned."
On ijth June, " the Committee having taken into their consideration .
the great expense of lighting the room with wax and tallow candles,
Resolve that the Secretary and Treasurer wait upon the Manager of
the Gas Company and learn of him what might be the expense of
€!lettton of a dorressponMng |!letnber in l^onbon. 179
introducing gas into the Lodge, and in the event of it not being
much more than ;^40, authorise them to conclude a bargain on the
best terms possible, it being understood that this sum was to include
chandelier, gas pipes, &c., and to have the same in readiness for the
meeting on the 24th inst."
When Brother Burnet was elected Master on this date, he appointed
a Committee for the purpose of making up Titles to the Lodge. This
matter had been allowed to lie over since August 1752 {vide p. 74).
On 5th January 18 19, Brother John Aytoun of Inchdairny, of the
Phcenix Lodge, Paris, was admitted a full Member of the Lodge, and
at the next Monthly Meeting — 4th February — " Brother Maconochie
presented to the Lodge a Toast Book, which was formerly the pro-
perty of Brother Moir now deceased, who filled the chair as R.W,
Master in the years 1795-6-7, and 1804-5." At a General Meeting
of the Committee held in Young's Tavern on 19th June, the Secre-
tary proposed that a full member of this Lodge residing in London
should be appointed to act as Corresponding Member of the Lodge
there, and a similar election to take place each year on 34th June —
agreed to unanimously. On St. John the Baptist's Day [this year,
Brother Alexander Robertson, W.S., an enthusiastic Member of the
Lodge, was elected R.W. Master, and Brother Plenderleith was unani-
mously elected to the office of Corresponding Member of the Lodge
in London. On 20th September, Past Master Brother Jaffray took
the chair, when his son was initiated ; but " owing to his extreme
youth the R.W. Master requested that his being made Fellow Craft
and Master Mason might be postponed until a future date." . . .
The health was drunk " in a particular manner of our old, old Past
Master, who filled the chair."
It is recorded on loth November " that on this occasion the Jewels
and other Regalia of the Lodge were covered with crape, and the
Members present with the visiting Brethren condoled with the Right
Worshipful on the great loss this Lodge and Masonry in general had
sustained in the death of our ever-to-be-lamented Friend and Brother,
Brother Alexander Jaffray. He had, while this Lodge was
i8o Slje danongate ^tltoitttitng %ot)Qt, fio, 2.
threatened with dangers on every side, stood up manfully in its sup-
port, and his exertions were at last crowned with success. The
memory of such a Brother, the Right Worshipful trusted, would ever
beheld in the highest respect and veneration by every true Member
of the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge."
The usual Monthly Meeting was held on 3d February 1820, " but
owing to the great calamity which has thrown these realms into
the deepest distress by the death of our ever-to-be-beloved gracious
sovereign George the Third, the greater part of the Members had
absented themselves with the idea that the meeting would be post-
poned. ... It was then ordered that those who had met this
night should be served with a very small allowance of ammunition,
and requested that the Brethren should conduct themselves in as
orderly a manner as possible suitable to the occasion. No songs were
allowed, and the musician played some loyal airs, but on the lowest
key, in consequence of which the joyous hilarity which has hitherto
distinguished ,the meetings . . . was this evening laid aside.
The deputations from Mary's Chapel and Journeymen were likewise
served with a smd.ll allowance gratis."
On 24th June Brother Robertson was re-elected R.W.M., and
Brother Plenderleith Corresponding Member in London.
A General Meeting of the Committee was held in Young's Tavern
on 1 8th December, when the R.W. Master " stated that he had felt it to
be his imperative duty to call this meeting for the purpose of con-
sidering what measures ought to be pursued towards those Brethren
who had behaved in an unmasonic manner on the 30th ultimo . . .
from the various unpleasant, reflections thrown out against the Lodge
. . ; and however disagreeable it might be to him, he must
attend to the interests of the Lodge. He then produced a letter
from a Brother who could not attend the meeting. The letter is in
these terms : —
"Dear Sir, — I find it will be impossible for me to attend the
meeting of the Committee . . . to-day.
^lilireisji to lts( ittajests ^ing (gtorgc TQ. i8i
" I am very sorry for the riot which took place at the meeting of
30th ult., and for anything personal I may have said to you I beg
to apologise. All I meant to do was to express my surprise at what
appeared to me at the time, and, I must add, still appears to me to
have been, orders which no Master of a Lodge has the power to issue.
— I am, &c."
The R.W. Master explained that no personal apology was expected
or required, but he was bound to say that that Brother had openly
disobeyed orders proceeding from the chair, orders which no Mason
could suppose to be beyond the powers of a Master to issue.
The Secretary reported that the expense of the damage amounted to
upwards of five guineas. It was resolved to send an extract of these
Minutes to the Brother in question, giving him a fortnight from this
date to make good the above loss, and apologise for his conduct, fail-
ing which, the whole matter to be laid before a General Meeting of
the Lodge.
It was then unanimously agreed that a meeting should be called
for the purpose of " considering the propriety of addressing our
august Patron, His Majesty King George the Fourth, assuring him of
our love to his sacred person, and our veneration for the constitution
of Great Britain." A General Meeting was therefore called for the
26th December, when the Secretary read the draft of an address
which he had drawn up. It was thereupon moved and seconded,
" That the address now submitted to the meeting should be thrown
out ... as it tended to throw discredit upon the Lodge by
entering upon politics, &c." After some discussion it was put to the
vote, " address," or " no address," when 7 against 33 voted for " no
address." The address was headed as follows : —
"To THE King's Most Excellent Majesty.
" May it please your Majesty, — We, &c. &c." It was signed
by R.W. Brother Robertson in name of himself, Office-bearers, and
Brethren, the seal of the Lodge being attached thereto. The Secre-
i82 tri)e ^anonsate ^tltotnmng |Dobge, fLo. 2.
tary was then directed to forward it to Lord Sidmouth, to be pre-
sented to His Majesty.
A meeting was called on loth January for the purpose of laying
before the Members an answer from Lord Sidmouth to the -address,
of which the following is a copy : —
"Whitehall, Jth January 1821.
" Sir, — I have had the honour to lay \before the King, the very
loyal and dutiful address of the Master, Wardens, Office-bearers, and
Brethren of the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning, and I have the satis-
faction to inform you that His Majesty was pleased to receive thp
same in the most gracious manner. — I am, &c.,
(Signed) " SIDMOUTH,
" The Secretary of the Lodge
" Canongate Kilwinning."
Then follows the copy of a long letter frbm the offending Brother,
acknowledging receipt of the Minute of ,the Committee Meeting of
1 8th ultimo, expressing regret for the riot therein referred to, and
enclosing £i), 53. " for the sake of quiet," but pointing out that as an
individual he was not liable for the breakage on the 30th November.
The R.W. Master replied as follows : —
"Edinburgh, 28th December 1820.
" Sir, — I have this day yours of the 26th current, enclosing £5, 53.,
and containing an apology for your conduct at Smart's Roonis on the
evening of St. Andrew's Day.
" As Master of the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge, I may express to
you my entire approbation of the conduct which you have pursued
both prior to and since the evening of the 30th ult, and my sincere
hope that the handsome manner in which you have now come forward
may for ever obliterate the recoUectidns of -that evening.
' " Your wishes that your letter should be engrossed in the minutes
shall be complied with.— I am, &c., ALEX. ROBERTSON."
%db%t €dtu, (!5dtitbarg|) (tnb %tit\), f.o. 291. 183
On2Sth June 1821 Brother Robertson was again elected R.W. Master,
but no mention is made of a Corresponding Member in London for
this year. It is worthy of remark that on this occsision, amongst the
deputations present, was one from the Lodge Celtic, No. 291, headed
by the R.W. Master, Brother Fernie. This flourishing Lodge was
instituted on the 7th of May this year, and in point of numbers and
influence at the present time is equal to any on the roll of the Grand
Lodge of Scotland. The Minute closes thus : " In consequence of a
disturbance that took place between two Brethren, the same was
referred to the General Committee to meet in Young's Tavern on
Thursday evening first at eight o'clock, . . . and having spent
the evening with the greatest harmony (with the exception of about
ten minutes during the above-mentioned disturbance), the Lodge was
closed with the usual solemnity."
At the Committee Meeting it was agreed " that at the first monthly
meeting in November the R.W. Master should from the chair repri-
mand the offending Brother in such terms as he should think proper."
No meeting, however, was held in November, but on 6th December,
"in terms of the resolution of the Committee of 28th June last.
Brother Ritchie, Steward of the Lodge, was called in and reprimanded
from the chair for improper conduct at the meeting for the celebra-
tion of the Festival of St. John on the 25th June last,''
On 7th March 1822, a distressed Brother received 5s. 6d. from the
funds, and about £2 from private Members of the Lodge. At the
Annual Meeting this year, Alex. Robertson was again elected Master,
and the other Office-bearers, with exception of the Secretary, were
also re-elected.
CHAPTER XII r.
i^^N 27th August 1822 the foundation stone oiF the National
> Vy Monument on the Calton Hill was laid, and as the
^^ Minute of this date records the event in a most elaborate
manner, the following extracts will convey an idea, of the graphic
description therein recorded. The opening part of the Minute is here
transcribed exactly as it stands in the Lodge Books : —
"GRAND PROCESSION
AND
LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE
OF THE '
NATIONAL MONUMENT.
THE TRIBUTE OF A GRATEFUL COUNTRY
TO
HER GALLANT AND ILLUSTRIOUS SONS
AS
A MEMORIAL OF THE ?AST AND INCENTIVE
TO THE FUTURE HEROISM OF
THE MEN OF
SCOTLAND.
FOUNDED on the 27th August, in the year 1822 — 5822, and in the third year of the
glorious reign of GEORGE the FOURTH, under his immediate auspices, and in com-
memoration of his most gracious and welcome visit to his Ancient Capital and the Palace of
his Royal Ancestors. John, Duke of Atholl ; James, Duke of Montrose ; Archi-
bald John, Earl of Rosebery ; John, Earl of Hopetoun ; Robert, Viscount
Melville ; and Thomas, Lord Lynedoch, oiEciating as Commissioners in name and
behalf, and by special appointment, of His August Majesty, the Patron of the Undertaking."
Rational Ittonumtnt on ©alton ^ill. 185
The Brethren met in the Lodge-room at eleven o'clock a.m., the
R.W. Master supplying the vacant offices consequent on the absence
of some of the Office-bearers. At twelve o'clock they walked in pro-
cession to the Parliament Square. The Grand Lodge was opened at
one o'clock in the Signet Hall, the First Division of the Court of
Session. The Duke of Hamilton and Brandon, Grand Master Mason
of Scotland, was then introduced and sworn into office. The Pro-
cession was then formed, preceded by the Grand Master, the Duke
of Argyle Grand Master elect ; the Earl of Rosslyn officiating as
Past Grand Master, and the other Grand Office-bearers as enumerated,
also by Sir John Marjoribanks, Past Grand Master, and all the Pro-
vincial Grand Masters. The whole moved off from Parliament
Square exactly at two o'clock p.m. At the Waterloo Hotel they
were joined by the Commissioners of the King, and officers of the
Army and Navy, the Lord Provost and Magistrates of the City of
Edinburgh, and the Committee of Contributors to the Monu-
ment, etc.
On reaching the site of the stone, the band played " God Save tlie
King" The Grand Master then intimated that the Grand Lodge had
attended at the desire of His Majesty to lay the foundation stone of
the National Monument.
The Duke of Atholl having addressed the assemblage, the Duke
of Hamilton, in obedience to His Majesty's commands, said it was
their duty to proceed with the work. The band then played "Hail,
Masonry ! " and the Rev. Dr. John Lee, Grand Chaplain, engaged
in prayer. Bottles hermetically sealed were then placed in the
cavities of the stone, containing coins, newspapers, &c., of that
period, the names of the Magistrates of Edinburgh and of the Office-
bearers of the Grand Lodge, the band playing " Greai Light ivill
Shine." The other ceremonies having been completed, and the
benediction pronounced, there followed three cheers.
Corn, wine, and oil were then poured upon the stone, and the
Grand Master made some very impressive remarks, after which there
was loud and continuous cheering; and a signal gun having been
24
1 86 ®l)e Glanongatc ^UtBXttniitjj %ob^t, fio, 2.
— 1 —
fired from the Calton Hill, salutes were immediately fired from the
guns of the Castle, Salisbury Crags, Leith Fort, and the ships in
Leith Roads, the band playing the " Mason's Ant/tem." The Duke of
Hamilton then delivered a long and brilliant speech, in which he
alluded to the " bright but melancholy memorial of our illustrious .
hero of Trafalgar," the glorious victory of Lord Abercromby, and
many other incidents of Scottish history, and wound up as follows : —
" I must beg now to offer my thanks to the different Masters, War-
dens, Officers, and Brethren for their numerous attendance upon this
solemn occasion. Having concluded the duty of the day, let them
return home, and animated with new zeal for the spirit of masonry,
let them encourage in their respective situations the sacred and
mysterious ceremonies of our august institution, formed in due
humility upon the basis of true and genuine philanthropy ; let them
promote with industry the practice of Love and Charity. As the
Great Architect of our Universe is the Creator of all that is good or
great, so be you the instruments and ministers of His will, con-
tinuing to teach and encourage the virtue of fraternal affection."
His Grace the'Duke of Atholl, having returned thanks to His Grace
the Duke of Hamilton, and the other Officers of Grand Lodge, Pro-
vincial Grand Masters, and Worshipful Brethren, said that they could
not conclude better than by reading the preamble of the Act uufder
which they had now officiated : — " ' Whereas it is expedient that a
Monument should be erected in Scotland in testimony of gratitude to
Almighty God for the signal successes of the British arms by sea
and land in the late eventful war.' The ground was broken on
the anniversary of His Most Gracious Majesty's birth, and the
foundation laid by us, the Commissioners ... on the anniversary
of the day when Christian slavery was abolished, when the captive's
bonds were broken, and the prisoner set free by British valour under
the walls of Algiers, thus gloriously terminating the achievements of
our gallant countrymen." The band played " Ruk Britannia," and the
ceremony concluded. The Procession returned to the Freemasons' ^
Hall guarded by parties of the Scots Greys and the 3rd Dragoon
%oiit=xoom granteb foe Stacljtnji a ^abbatl) ^cI)oor. 1S7
Guards, and a party of infantry, the Magistrates by a party of the
High Constables, and the Calton Constables. " Upon the whole, it
may be said that this was the most splendid Masonic ceremony and
procession ever witnessed in this country.' "
On 6th March 1823, a meeting of the General Committee was held
for the purpose of nominating a Junior Warden instead of Brother
Michie Gleig, deceased, and on the same date the monthly meeting
was held; — the Jewels and other Regalia of the Lodge being covered
with crape. The announcement was then made to the Brethren of
" the death of our much respected Junior Warden, Brother Michie
Gleig, a Brother who was a warm friend to the Lodge and a most
zealous supporter of its interests, possessed of great abilities and of
the most amiable disposition. His memory can never be effaced
from the minds of those who had the pleasure of being acquainted
with him." Brother Walter Dickson, junior, W.S., was then elected
to fill the vacant office. At this meeting the following Brethren were
admitted Honorary Members — namely, six of Mary's Chapel, one of
St. Andrew's Lodge, one of St. Luke's, "and George Muir of the
Lesmahagow's St. John's (a Poet)."
At the Festival of St. John the Baptist, Brother Alexander Robert-
son, W.S., was again elected to the chair, and the other annual busi-
ness having been transacted, the meeting closed, and the Minutes of
the next Monthly Meeting on 12th November record that, "As the
usual day of meeting of the Lodge this month happened to be on the
same day on which the Fast previous to the dispensation of the
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper took place in Edinburgh, the meeting
was postponed to this date." At this meeting Sir Patrick Walker
recommends two candidates for initiation, and during the evening
there was received a deputation from St. David's Lodge, headed by
Sir Patrick Walker. A letter was submitted from Mr. Robert
Cargill, W.S., requesting the use of the Lodge-room for teaching a
Sabbath-school. It was remitted to the Master's Committee to do as
seemed proper.
The Committee met on the 14th November, when Mr. Cargill'a
1 88 ®I)e Canongate g^tltointiing J^oligc, ^o, 2.
letter was read, and the meeting was " of opinion that under all the
circumstances of the case it may be proper to allow the room for the
purpose mentioned in the foregoing letter, at least for half a year
from this date." Accordingly, Mr. Alexander Robertson replied
by letter granting the request on the following conditions: — " ist As
no rent is expected or wished for the room, it is expected that the
teachers shall be careful of the room and furniture, and be responsible
for their preservation in good order. 2nd. The keys of the room will
be given to the masters' by Mr. Thomas Ritchie, Jack's Close, and it
will be requisite that he be in attendance to see the rooms opened
and shut. 3rd. If the masters find it advisable, they may have the
use of the gas on paying the sums exacted by the Gas Company for the
use of it by the schools, which sum does not exceed lod. per hour."
The Festival of St. Andrew's was celebrated on Monday the ist of
December, and the proceedings are recorded at length by the Secre-
tary in his usual neat and careful style. The Minute of a meeting of
the General Committee, held on, 17th of this month, records very
fully the particulars of a disagreeable incident which occurred at St.
Andrew's Festival, the perpetrator of which, having admitted the
offence, explaining that no evil intentions were meant, was called
upon to "make an apology," and to "be excluded from the
Canongate Kilwinning Lodge for the space of three months." On
account of the, delinquent's unmasonic behaviour after receiving the
above sentence, the Committee unanimously resolved that he should
be for ever prevented from attending the meetings of the Lodge, and
at the monthly meeting on sth February i824^the visitors having
retired into an adjoining room — the Committee's recommendation
was unanimously confirmed.
An Extraordinary Meeting and Dinner took place on Saturday,
I Sth May 1824. "The dinner was furnished by Brother Budge of
Mary's Chapel, who, having laid out the table in a tasteful manner, a
select company sat down at 5 o'clock, the chair being filled by the
R.W. Master. After the cloth had been removed and the daylight
shut out, the Lodge was opened in the usual form. At high
" JPrea&fttl eionflagiration" in Itgl) street. 189
twelve exact the Lodge was closed and the Brethren departed, ' happy
to meet, sorry to part, but happy to meet again! "
At the Committee meeting of 19th June, the R.W.M. stated that
in consequence of the damage done to the Lodge-room by the chil-
dren, he had written to Mr. R. Cargill, W.S., declining to allow the
Sabbath-school to be held there any longer, and this was approved of.
On 24th June Alexander Robertson, W.S., was again elected Master ;
and after recording the election of Grand Lodge Office-bearers on St.
Andrew's Day, the Minute says : — " In consequence of the confusion
and distress occasioned by the recent dreadful conflagration, the
Grand Lodge considered it prudent not to have any public celebration
of the Festival. A select number of Members of Canongate Kil-
winning, however, dined in John's Coffee House, and the evening
passed in a most agreeable way." *
About seventy members of the Lodge attended a reception meeting
* The " dreadful conflagration," which is here alluded to, broke out on
the evening of Monday, the 15th November, on the south side of the High
Street, about half way between the Tron Church and St. Giles. Cockburn
describes the advocates running out from the Parliament House, " gowned
and wigged," to see the conflagration. The author of the " Afemorials " says :
— " I found the south-east angle of the Parliament Close burning violently.
This was in the centre of the same thick-set population and buildings, but
the property was far more valuable. It was almost touching Sir William
Forbes' bank, the Library of the Advocates, and of the \\'riters to the Signet,
the Cathedral, and the Courts. Of course the alarm was very great, but this
only seemed to increase the confusion. No fire ever got fairer play. Judges,
Magistrates, Officers of State, dragoons, librarians, people described as
' Heads of Bodies,' were all mixed with the mob, all giving peremptory and
inconsistent directions, and all with angry and provoking folly claiming para-
mount authority. It was said to have been mooted, and rather sternly dis-
cussed on the street, whether the Lord Provost could order the Lord Justice
Clerk to Prison, or the Justice the Provost, and whether George Cranstoun,
the Dean of the Faculty, was bound to work at an engine when commanded
by John Hope, the Solicitor-General, or vice versa. . . . Amidst this
confusion, inefficiency, and squabble for dignity the fire held on till next
morning, by which time the whole private buildings in the Parliament Close,
including the whole east side and left half of the south side, were consumed."
igo ^t)e Clanongate ^tltDtnntng Xobgc, ^o. 2.
held by the Grand Master, the Right Hon. Lord Viscount Glenorchy,
in Freemasons' Hall, 28th January 1825, and the Minute of next
monthly meeting, 3rd February, closes with an interesting paragraph
as follows : —
" Old John Reid, who for many years was a faithful servant of the
Lodge,* died a few days ago. He was upwards of S5 years of age,
was born near Stirling, and bred a weaver. In his latter years he was
officer to the Incorporation of Hammermen of Canongate. He was
initiated about sixty years ago in the Lodge Royal Arch, Stirling,
and acted in this Lodge as Tyler, and was present in that capacity
when the Lodge assembled for the Grand Lodge meeting on the 28th
ultimo." J. Graham, Esq., of Leitchtown, Royal Arch Lodge, Stirling,
was affiliated an Honorary Member to-night. At the meeting of 3rd
March, amongst several other initiations reported, appears the name
of Mr. David Paterson Howden, of Sir William Forbes & Co., proposed
by James Thomson, banker, and the following i;eply was received
from the Earl of Dalhousie, a member of the Lodge and a Past
Grand Master (who was understood to be at that time at Dalhousie
Castle), to an invitation sent to attend the meeting : —
" London, i,th February 1825.
" Sir, — Your letter of 31st January reached me here this morning,
and I hasten to offer my apology that I could not attend the invita-
tion of the R.W. Master, Officers, and Brethren of Canongate Kil-
winning Lodge. Without doing this I should have feared my silence
might have been misinterpreted. — I am, sir, your most obedt. humble
servant.
'^,^:.<^^c-<^
* Affiliated 2nd December 1767.
Uropo^el) (ffUctton of ^siSistant ۤranli ^ecrttitrjj. 191
Alex. Robertson, W.S., was re-elected R.W.M. on 24th June, and
the Minute of i6th November records that a deputation attended the
laying of the foundation stone of the new High School by the Right
Hon. Lord Viscount Glenorchy, Grand Master, on 26th July ; " and
although there was not a numerous attendance of the members, the
dignity of the Lodge was fully supported." The Annual Committee
Meeting in June 1826, preparatory to the annual election, took place
in Cook's Tavern, No. i North St. Andrew Street, and on St. John
the Baptist's Day Brother Robertson was continued Master. It was
reported that the Rev. David Ritchie was along with others initiated
since last meeting, but on account of his profession his fees were dis-
pensed with. The Minute of Grand Lodge Election on St. Andrew's
Day being given very fully, a copy is here transcribed of the prin-
cipal part of it, namely : — " The Grand Master officiating (Brother
William Inglis) then proceeded to the election of Office-bearers. The
Grand Office-bearers were unanimously elected, until it came to
Brother W. A. Lawrie as Assistant Grand Secretary. When this
election was proposed, Brother Robert Kennedy (No. 2), R.W. Proxy
Master of the Lodge Camperdown, Dundee, rose and objected to the
said nomination on the ground that this was not an appointment of any
of the known and regular Office-bearers of the Grand Lodge of Scot-
land, which perhaps, although he doubted it much, might have been
legally and validly made at a previous meeting of the Grand Lodge,
but was, in fact, the creation of a new office, which, from its very
nature, is occasional and temporary, and the creation of which ought
then to be submitted to the consideration of the Grand Lodge at the
meeting on St. Andrew's Day. This motion was seconded by R.W.
Bro. Peter Campbell (No. 2), Proxy Master of the Dunbar Castle
Lodge, and supported by the Master of the Canongate Kilwinning
Lodge. Before this motion was disposed of by the Grand Lodge, the
said R.W. Peter Campbell, of the Dunbar Castle Lodge, moved that
the consideration of the propriety of creating this office should be
delayed until the next Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge ;
thereafter the R.W. Sub. Grand Master from the chair asked repeat-
192 5ri)e danonigate l^iltoinning f^obge, jp[o. 2.
edly whether there were any lunatics in the hall. This question
having been followed by most general expressions of disapprobation
on the part of the Brethren present, Brother James Allan Maconochie
(No. 2) moved that the Grand Lodge be closed, which motion was
duly seconded by the R.W. Master of the Canongate Kilwinning
Lodge. While these various motions were still undisposed of, and the
R.W. Master of the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning was with becoming
propriety speaking to the question, he was interrupted by the chair,
and was not allowed to proceed, and at the same instant the gross
conduct of' an injdividual, who charged Brethren with coming in a
state of drunkenness to annoy the meeting, and which conduct,
although it immediately called for the unanimous disapprobation of
the Brethren present, was passed over unnoticed by the chair. The
Sub. Grand Master then threatened to bring in a body of police to
disperse the meeting, thereby threatening to introduce into the
regularly constituted Grand Lodge of Scotland a body of men or
individuals of the body who were not members of any recognised
Lodge. In these circumstances, while the creation of this new office
was still undecided. Brother Maconochie proposed that the meeting
should proceed to the celebration of the Festival of St. Andrew, vyhich
was accordingly done, by drinking the health of His Most Gracious
Majesty, as Patron of the order — by sanction of the chair.
" After having joined in the toast proposed by Bro. Maconochie, and
the acclamations which followed, the R.W.M. of the Canongate Kil-
winning Lodge, in consequence of the most irregular and extraordi-
nary conduct adopted on this occasion by the Sub. Grand Master, and
of the repeated interruptions he met with whilst addressing the chair,
in consideration of the total want of order which prevailed, and con-
sidering the effect which the continuation of such a scene must
have had on the minds of those Brethren under his care, who for the
first time were within the walls of the Grand Lodge, paid the accus-
tomed obeisance to the R.W. Grand Master and Wardens, left the
Grand Lodge accompanied by his Brethren."
Having thus left the Grand Lodge, the Brethren of the Canongate
" (Sttvaotitinats ©onbtttt of tljc ^trb. (granb JUastcr." 193'
Kilwinning returned to St. John's Chapel, when the Lodge was
constituted with all due solemnity.
" The Brethren having expressed their decided disapprobation of the
extraordinary conduct of the Sub. Grand Master, it was moved and
duly seconded that a Committee be appointed for the purpose of
taking the matter into consideration, and report . . . such pro-
ceedings as they think should be adopted for maintaining the dignity,
rights, and privileges of the Craft, and the due and regular election of
the Office-bearers of the Grand Lodge.
"A numerous deputation attended from Mary's Chapel, and the
Lodge was likewise visited by a number of Brethren from the sister
Lodges. Reports of several initiations having taken place since last
meeting, and the other routine business finished, the meeting closed,
to meet again on the 7th December."
On this date a very numerous attendance of the Brethren took
place, and amongst others reported as having been initiated in the
Lodge since last meeting, appears the name of the celebrated lawyer,
Henry Glassford Bell.
The R.W.M. submitted to the meeting the report of the Committee
appointed on 30th ult., which is of the following tenor : — " Report
by the Select Committee of the Ld. C. K., appointed to consider
the proceedings which took place at the election of Office-bearers
of the Grand Lodge on 30th November 1 826. The Com. having
proceeded to take into consideration the remit made to them . . .
and having maturely and deliberately considered the circumstances
attending the extraordinary line of conduct adopted by the Sub. Gr.
Mr. on the occasion in question, the Com. unanimously report and
recommend to the Lodge, that before adopting further proceedings
they sh. give instructions to the Secy, to forward to the Secy, of the
Gr. Ld. a copy of the Minute of the meeting which took place on the
30th ult., so far as the same regards the proceedings which took place
while present with the Gr. Ld., and the resolution which the Ld.
C. K. adopted thereafter relating thereto. And that the Gr. Secy,
be requested to lay the same before the Gr. Lodge, at their first
25
194 Sl)t ^attongate l^ilroltinitig l^olige, ^o. 2.
meeting, itl order that an opportunity may be afforded to the Sub.
Gr. Mr. to explain the conduct which he adopted towards the R.W.
Master and Brethren of the Lodge C. K. on the occasion referred to :
And further, to explain why, on the said occasion, the irregularities
specified in the said Minute were connived at : And further still, why
the celebration of the Festival of St. Andrew was begun by proposing
a toast, while the motions therein mentioned were undisposed of, and
while a disputed election was still undecided by the Gr. Ld." Depu-
tations were received on this occasion from St. David's and the Celtic
Lodges. On 4th January 1827 the Secretary reported having trans-
mitted to the Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, the extract
from the Minute of 30th November, together with a copy of the
Committee's Report of 13th December 1826, and apologies were
received from the R.W.M. and Depute Master on ist February, con-
sequent on their inability to attend the mon|:hly meeting of that date,'
the latter " being obliged to preside at the first anniversary of the
• Six Feet Club,' of which he is Captain."
Brother Robertson was on 24th June re-elected R.W.M., and Cap-
tain Ruddock of the St. Andrew's Lodge, Banff, was assumed an
Honorary Member, It was reported on 1 5 th November, "that on
iSth August last the Lodge attended at the ceremony of laying the
Foundation Stones of the Southern and Western Bridges (named
King's Bridge, and King George the Fourth Bridge), of the intended
Improvements . . . when a numerous attendance of the Brethren
took place."
The acting R.W.M. then stated that the painful task devolved upon
him of announcing to the meeting the irreparable loss the Lodge had
sustained in the death of their late much lamented Senior Warden,
George Walker Maxwell, of Carruchan, a brother who had endeared
himself to every individual member of the Lodge.
Another General Meeting of the Lodge was held on 21st Decem-
ber for the purpose of disposing of a charge preferred against Bro.
James Soutar of this Lodge for unmasonic and ungentlemanlike con-
duct at the Festival of St. Andrew on 30th November last in the
CFittcancc cjjangell from ^t. Joljn'iS ffllose to <^t. |ol)n's street. 195
Grand Lodge, the circumstances connected with which had been
fully investigated by the Committee and duly recorded. A long dis-
cussion took place as to the competency of this Lodge to institute
proceedings for an offence committed in the Grand Lodge by a duly
qualified member of that body, and eventually a motion was carried to
the effect that the " whole proceedings are irregular, and dismiss the
complaint ; " the R.W.M. and Office-bearers considering it to be
quite unnecessary to press the matter against him, " in respect of what
had already been done operating as sufficient warning to prevent him
conducting himself for the future in an unmasonic and ungentleman-
like manner."
It is minuted, on 7th February 1828, "that the R.W.M. having, in
addition to the many services to the Lodge, made a present of two
splendid paintings, the same were on this occasion hung up in the
room, and a vote of thanks to him was carried by acclamation." Like
many other interesting circumstances recorded by the Secretary, the
information given is so meagre, that it is now doubtful what paintings
were alluded to, no names being given.
" On this occasion Bro. James Andrew presented an elegant Snuff
Horn, for which he received a vote of thanks." This Horn is still in
possession of the Lodge, and appears in the Inventory of Effects.
Deputations were in attendance from Mary's Chapel, Journeymen, St.
Andrew, and Portobello,* headed by the R.W. Masters and four
Brethren from each Lodge.
On 31st May 1833, a Committee meeting took place by request of
the R.W. Master for the purpose of (ist) "To obtain a settlement of
accounts from the Secretary, and (2nd) To concert measures "...
as to certain improvements and repairs on the Lodge.
Those repairs, for obvious reasons, had been rendered absolutely
necessary, and were suggested to the Master by various Office-bearers.
He had consequently given instructions to proceed with such of these
as were most pressing, so as to have the Lodge in good order by the
* Instituted ist August 1808.
196 ®l)e danongatt PiltDintiinj f^olrje, ^0. z.
ensuing election. It was resolved to , call another meeting of the
Committee on the subject in a few days,; and accordingly on 3rd
June a meeting was held in the " Royal Saloon." A plan of the pro-
posed improvements , and repairs was laid on t;he table, which being
approved of, a Committee was appointed to superintend the work.
It was then stated that Brother Anthony Trail, W.S., and the R.W.M.
had been in communication with the adjacent proprietor for an
entrance to the Lodge by St. John Street (formerly the entrance was
by St. John's Close), with the result that such an entrance was offered
for ;^ 20. The meeting agreed to accept this offer, and remitted to
the Special Committee to meet with the proprietor, procure the title
to be granted to the Lodge, and get the entrance completed as ex-
peditiously as possible.
It was further resolved that a general subscription should be entered
into to defray the great expense necessarily attending the proposed
repairs, and the Secretary was ordered to furnish a correct list of the
"whole of the present Members of the Lodge," that the same may be
as generally and expeditiously circulated as possible. It was also
directed to get the Jewels repaired and clothing renewed, which were
in " very bad and almost disreputable order." The Secretary's letter
stated that the books and papers of the Lodge still in the posses-
sion of the two former Secretaries, would be delivered up at the
General Meeting on 24th June, and that the present Secretary may
in the meantime have access to them.
The General Meeting of Committee was held on 20th June i8,33,when
the Secretary's accounts for the year from June 1831 to June 1832 were
laid on the table, but in the absence of the accounts for the current year
they deferred auditing the same until the whole, were before them.
On 24th of this month the R.W. Master stated " that the meeting
had been called at this early hour (4 o'clock p.m.), a,ccording to the
Laws and Customs of the Lodge, for the election, &c." He was then
continued in the Cha,ir for the ensuing year, and after the election the
meeting adjourned to dinner, and again assembled in the evening to
celebrate the Festival of St. John the Baptist.
58
o 3
era o' ?■
§. ° ^
t. TO
' S. o
p
^resientation from ^nigljt STemplaris anb |R.^. €^I)apter fio. i. 197
" A handsome sword was on this occasion presented by Brother
Deuchar (of Mary's Chapel) to the Lodge on behalf of himself and
the Knight Templars of Scotland, and Royal Arch Chapter No. i, as
a mark of their esteem, and in return for the kindness which they had
at all times received from the Lodge, in granting them the use of the
Chapel for their meetings. The Sword being intended to be worn by
the Outer Tyler of the Lodge, and to act as a greater incentive to
him in the exercise of his duties." Thanks were returned by the
R.W.M. for the gift. It may be remarked that this sword is not now
in the possession of the Lodge.
A Special Meeting of Committee again took place on sth July for
the purpose of advising as to the state of the Lodge repairs, and the
best means of liquidating the expense, when it was resolved to make
every effort amongst the Members to accomplish this, before having
recourse to a loan.
It was stated that great inconvenience was felt from the want of
a proper Diploma plate, when the Secretary was ordered to get one
engraved forthwith.
At another Special Committee Meeting held on 4th November the
Secretary stated that he had now arranged with the adjoining pro-
prietor, Mr. John Morison, for an entrance to the Lodge by St. John
Street at the price of £ig, los., to be payable on a promissory note
by the Office-bearers, with interest, at Martinmas 1834. "The
Secretary also stated that he had been in communication with Mr.
Lockhart, the proprietor of the cellar below the Lodge, who had
agreed to give ;^ 10 for renouncing in his favour the present right of
entrance to the Lodge by St. John's Close, and so much of the mutual
area below as was not requisite for a lobby to the Lodge. Mr. Lock-
hart, however, had stipulated that in the event of the Lodge obtaining
the proposed entrance he should be entitled to avail himself of the
entrance by striking a door through the Green before the Lodge, into
it." With the exception that instructions were given that Mr. Lock-
hart was on no account to have an entrance communicating with the
proposed one by St. John Street, the meeting unanimously approved
198 Sri)c fflanongate ^iltntnmnj flobje, ^0. 2.
of the Secretary's arrangement with Mr. Morison, and the parties
present signed the promissory note.
The Secretary having stated that there were several very pressing
debts which required immediate settlement, the Master, Past Master,
Depute Master, and Secretary each agreed to advance the sum of
;^S, 5s. as a loan, to be indemnified from Subscriptions obtained
towards the repairs.
" Copy Pro. Note . . . delivered to Mr. Morison.
" £20, 9s. " Edinburgh, 3 1st October 1833.
"Against the term of Martinmas 1834, we couly and seally promise
to pay to Mr. John Morison, Spirit Merchant, High Street, Edinr.,
, within his shop, the sum of ;^20, 9s. sterling, value received, as the
price of Entrance to the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge by St. John
Street."
" 19th Decemr. — At this meeting the Secy, laid before the Lodge
the Missives of Sale entered into between him and John Morison
for the Entranee to the Lodge by St. John Street, dated 2Sth Novemr.
last, and the Minute of Agreement between him and Mr. James
Lockhart, the Proprietor of the Cellars and Property below the Lodge,
for ceding possession of the late entrance by St. John's Close, dated
13th and i6th December current, which were approved of by the
meeting.
"(Signed) ANTH. TRAIL, .S^cy^
" A. M'NEILL, Master."
On 22nd January 1834 a Grand Lodge visitation took place headed
by Sir John Hay, of Haystoun, Bart., M.P. for Peeblesshire, S.G.M. in
absence of the Marquis of Douglas and Clydesdale, M.W.G.M., accom-
panied by Sir Thomas Dick Lauder, Bart., Provl. G.M. of Elgin, and
many others ; also by deputations from eight of the then existing
Edinburgh Lodges. The usual style of Minute is recorded in full
and signed by the Grand Lodge Office-bearers, after which follows '
/eitbal Situ to tl)e %o^t ^ropertg. 199
the regular Minute of the Lodge, entitled " Eodie et Loco',' and signed
by the Master and Secretary.
At the Annual General meeting Bro. M'Neill was re-elected R.W.M.,
and the meeting, considering that the only way to liquidate the out-
standing debt on the Lodge was to obtain a valid feudal title to the
property, remitted to Bro. Trail to get the same completed as
expeditiously as possible ; the title to the property to be taken
in favour of Brothers M'Neill, M'Dougal, Turnbull, Leslie, and
Trail, as trustees for themselves and the other Members — the majority
a quorum.
A meeting of the Committee took place on 26th November 1834,
when Mr. Trail laid before them " the Act of Council relative to the
new Charter, and also the Charter of Novodamus, &c., by the Magis-
trates of Edinburgh to Mr. M'Neill and others as trustees for the
Members of the Lodge, to the Subjects in St. John's Close and St.
John Street, which the meeting approved of."
CHAPTER XIV.
5^^ HE subject of a revival of the Poet-Laureateship of the
J I Lodge was at this time engrossing the attention of the
Members, and it is recorded that, on i6th January 1835,
the Committee unanimously resolved to invite the " Ettrick Shepherd "
to join the Craft, with a view to elect him Poet-Laureate of the
Lodge. The Minute s^ys : — " It was proposed by R.W. Brother
M'Neill, Master, and seconded by Worshipful Brother Turnbull,
Substitute Master, that it was expedient that the honorary office
of Poet-Laureate of the Lodge, which had been in abeyance since
the death of the immortal Brother Robert Burns, should be
revived, and that James Hogg, the , Ettrick Shepherd, on whom
his poetic mantle had fallen, should be respectfully requested to
accept of the appointment as the highest tribute to his genius and
private worth which the Brethren had it in their power to bestow,
which motion was unanimously and enthusiastically carried. Brot^her
John Forbes, in consequence of his being personally acquainted with
Mr. Hogg, was instructed to communicate to him this resolution, and
at the same time, in the name of the • Master, Office-bearers, and
Members, to invite his attendance at a full meeting of the Lodge on
Friday, the 6th day of February next, at 8 o'clock evening, to have
his brow encircled with the laurel wreath, the insignia of his office.
The Secretary was instructed to provide an entertainment suitable for
the occasion, and on purpose to give additional interest to the meeting,
to have in readiness the diplomas for the Polish officers, lately
admitted Members, to be then formally presented to them."
OTarrant to Initiate tJje €ttrick ^^epljerli at InncrUttljen. 201
In pursuance of the above request, Brother Forbes communicated
with Mr. Hogg, and received the following reply : —
" Altrive "Lake, January 25, 1835.
" Dear Forbes, — I am sixty-five years of age this night. I am
not a Mason, and never have been, having uniformly resisted the
entreaties of my most influential friends to become one. I am, how-
ever, intensely sensible of the high honour intended me, which, coming
to my hand on the morning of my birthday, has, I feel, added a new
charm to the old shepherd's life. My kindest respects to the Hon.
Master and Members of the Lodge, and say that I cannot join them,
nor be initiated into the mysteries of the Art, for I know I should
infallibly . . . And, alas ! my dear John, I am long past the age
of. enjoying Masonic revels. I shall, however, be most proud to
become nominally the Poet-Laureate of the Lodge, to have my name
enrolled as such, and shall endeavour to contribute some poetical
trifle annually. — I remain, Yours and the Honourable Brotherhood's
most affectionate, JAMES HOGG."
It will be seen that the refusal of Mr. James Hogg, at this date,
even to join the Order, arose chiefly from a resolution to withdraw
himself from public society. Nevertheless, what cannot be considered
otherwise than a most graceful compliment to the Craft, Mr. Hogg,
after mature consideration of the value of Freemasonry, about three
months afterwards, declared his willingness to join, and subsequent to
becoming a Member, frequently expressed himself more than satisfied
with the Fraternity, and looked upon the circumstances attending
his initiation as niarked by complimentary exceptions in his favour.
As circumstances prevented Mr. Hogg from attending a meeting ot
the Lodge in Edinburgh, a Masonic excursion was determined on, to
go to Peeblesshire for the purpose of initiatin^4mn into the Order ;
but, previous to doing so, a warrant, or dispensatioh, to constitute a
Lodge there was obtained, and it is minuted that —
26
202 SCIje €attOttgate ^iliDmnmg $obge, ^o. 2.
" At a meeting of the Committee of the Lodge Canongate Kil-
winning, held on the first day of May 1835. The which day it was
moved and unanimously approved of : That, in consideration of the
eminent character and acknowledged worth of James Hogg, the
Ettrick Shepherd, he be admitted a Member of this ancient Lodge,
and for that purpose a deputation, headed by Bro. Jas. Deans as
acting Master, assisted by Bro. Anthoriy Trail and Alex. Mackie as
his Wardens, and other Brethren, do proceed to Innerleithen, or any
other convenient place there, to open and hold a meeting of the
Lodge Canongate Kilwinning, and to initiate the said James Hogg
or other gentlemen present on that occasion : For doing whereof this
shall be your Warrant.
' "Given vinder our hands and seal at St. John's Chapel,
Edinburgh, this ist day of May 1835, and of Masonry 5835-
(Sd.) CHARLES MACDOUGAL, lD.7l/.
W. B. D. D. TURNBULL, S.M.
JOHN LESLIE, .S.fF.
A. MACKIE, Secy." \
The ceremony was accordingly fixed for 7th May 1835, and on the
morning of that day two of the Brethren, Messrs. Adam Wilson and
William Pringle, drove to Mr. Hogg's house at Altrive Lake, when
they found him prepared to mount his steed for the occasion. After
being hospitably welcomed to the Banks of Yarrow, the party started
on a short fishing excursion. Having arrived at the Cleikum Inn,
St, Ronan's, the expectant Brethren were all introduced to him, and
the proper paraphernalia having been brought from the city, the
Lodge was duly constituted, and the three degrees conferred upon
the " Shepherd," after which the Brethren sat down to a sumptuous
repast in the Cleikum Inn, kept by Meg Dods. After the usual
Masonic toasts, the R.W.M. proposed " the health of the newly initiated
Brother, James Hogg," and in so doing alluded to the remarkable
circumstance of Burns having been the Poet-Laureate of the Lodge
Canongate Kilwinning, and said, that as the " Ettrick Shepherd was
"ILabottt anb "Sitlttilfmtnt " at tlje ©leiknm Inn. 203
universally looked upon as the successor of that immortal poet in his
poetic fame, so the Members had felt the greater anxiety to enrol the
name of James Hogg, Poet-Laureate of the Lodge."
Mr. Hogg, in returning thanks, said " that he felt the honour which
the Lodge had conferred upon him, and although hitherto he had
resisted the invitations of many friends to join the Craft, he could not
but rejoice — the ordeal past — that he had at length yielded to the
solicitations of his friend Adam at his side ; that his mind was deeply
impressed with the solemn injunctions this day received, and assured
the Brethren that their travelling such a distance was deeply felt by
him. The W.M. has alluded to myself (said the Shepherd) as being
the successor of Robert Burns. I have fought hard for my literary
fame. The first time that it ever entered into my head to court the
Muses, was upon the occasion of my having heard recited 'The
Cottar's Saturday Night.' I learned it by heart, and thought I
would try if I could do something like it. I have experienced great
kindness from my literary friends ; indeed, I will do Burns the
justice to say that he had to struggle through far greater difficulty
than myself, and consequently is entitled to higher praise."
Brother Mackie, Secretary of the Lodge, said, " This is a proud day
for the annals of Masonry, and particularly for the Lodge Canongate
Kilwinning, which has had the honour of enrolling in its records the
Ettrick Shepherd as a Brother Mason. While we congratulate our-
selves on this auspicious event, we should not forget the name of our
illustrious and departed Brother, Robert Burns, whose worth and
transcendent talent were only fully appreciated after the grave had
closed over him. Allow me, without in the most remote degree
attempting to depreciate the well-earned fameof our worthy Shepherd,
to propose the memory of Robert Bums as ' the last Poet-Laureate
of this Lodge.' "
Brother Burnes, M.D., and F.R.S., H.E.LC.S., Bombay Army,
brother of the celebrated traveller, " begged, before proceeding to pro-
pose a toast which he felt convinced would be received with enthusiasm
by all present, to acknowledge himself a relation, though distant, of
204 Sl)e danongatc fttltoinmng %oi)Qt, fio. 2.
the immortal Burns, and to return his heartfelt thanks to the company
for the introduction of the name of Burns on this occasion. He
concluded by proposing ' the health of R.W. Master Deans, whose
merits were so well known to the Brethren as to require no eulogium
on his part.' "
Many other toasts were drunk, among which was " the health of
Brother Professor Wilson,, the friend and patron 6l the Yarrow Bard."
The Ettrick Shepherd sang some of his own sweet lays, such as
"When the Kye comes Hame." Next day three of the Brethren
went home- with Brother Hogg, with whom they dined, returning
delighted with his hospitality and agreeable family and fireside.
Under the above date (7th May) it is minuted that^ —
" In virtue of the above dispensation, We, the undersigned Brethren,
did this day meet within the Cleikum Inn at Innerleithen, and there
held a Lodge, at which James Hogg, of Altrive Lake, the Ettrick
Shepherd, was regularly initiated as an Entered Apprentice, passed a
Fellow-Craft, and raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason.
" Given under our hands and seal this 7th day of May, in the
year of our Lord 1835^ and of Masonry 5835.^
(Sd.) JAS. DEANS, M.
ANTH.TRAIL, 5.f^.
A. MACKIE,/.fK.
"James Burnes, M.D., H.E.I.C.S.; Adam Wilson, Dan. M.
Davidson, R.A., John Donald, Wm, JeiTries Dowlin, And.
Sievwright, Pat. Sandiman, Wm. Pringle {afterwards Poet-
Laureate), John Forbes, C. Neaves {afterwards Lord Neaves),
Rob. Boyd, A. Mackie, Secretary."
On 15th May it was reported that Brother James Burnes, M.D.,,
M.M., of the Lodge of Montrose, had been admitted a full Member
IDocb ^antsfa^, aftectDariiiS i$tt |ftarqttt$i of palI)ou!8tt. 205
on 30th April. The Minute of the Committee of the Lodge, held on
the 1st May curt., having been read, " Brother Deans rose and informed
the meeting that he, along with several of the Members, had gone to
Innerleithen on the 7th curt., and he was happy to say that this
Lodge was now able to enrol the name of James Hogg, of Altrive
Lake, Yarrow, as a true and faithful Brother, duly and fully initiated
a Master Mason of the Craft, and read the Sederunt of that meeting.
The Lodge unanimously approved of the whole proceedings, and
hoped the Shepherd would be long spared to enjoy his new honours."
The following note of expenses and particulars in connection with
the Ettrick Shepherd's initiation will be of interest to the Brethren.
It appears that in order to attend the ceremony the Lodge Tyler was
provided with a white steed, on which he rode to Innerleithen, con-
veying with him the necessary paraphernalia. A new uniform was
provided for him at a cost oi £7, los. iid., and the coat and vest are
still to be seen hanging in the ante-room of the Lodge. Some of the
items contained in the bill for the above amount are as follows ; —
Superfine crimson cloth, blue shag, gilt lace, gilt buttons, pair knee
buckles, &c. Besides this account, the expenses of the " deputation
going to Innerleithen," &c., charged to the Lodge, were £8, Ss.
On this occasion the Right Hon. James Andrew, Lord Ramsay,
afterwards tenth Earl and first Marquis of Dalhousie, was passed and
raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason. This nobleman was
initiated at a meeting held on 6th February this year, and the cere-
mony was followed by a banquet in the Lodge-room, at which
about one hundred of the Brethren were present. R.W. Brother
M'Neill occupied the chair, and was supported by the official digni-
taries of the Lodge and a number of distinguished Members, among
whom were Sir Patrick Walker of Coates, and Ranald M'Donald
Seton of StafiFa, &c., &c. Brother Deans, late W.M. of the Lodge
of Emulation, London (who initiated the Ettrick Shepherd), and
Brother Charles Doyne Sillery, appeared in the splendid costumes of
the Knights of Malta. Although no deputations were expected on
the occasion. Brother Deuchar, R.W.M. of Mary's Chapel, honoured
2o6 E)qt €¬igiAt l&tltDtnntng |LoDge, ^o. 2.
the Lodge with a visit and deputation. Many excellent toasts and
speeches were delivered during the evening. The eloquence and
truly Masonic feeling of the youngest Mason then present, Brother
Lord Ramsay, excited general admiration and iapplause, especially in
his speech returning thanks to the Brethren for dedicating a bumper
to the health of his father, the Earl of Dalhousie, an old Member of
the Canongate Kilwinning. With great propriety, his Lordship drank
the health of a little band of Polish Brethren who were present, who
had been forced to fly from their homes by the edict of the northern
autocrat. The other gentlemen who were initiated this evening were
Major Walker, Captain Rutherford of the Bengal Army, and Mr.
Robert Blackwood, publisher.
The Minute of iSth May concludes thus : "Lord Ramsay left the
meeting at an early hour, having to proceed to London next day,
but the meeting did not break up till late."
Appended is his Lordship's autograph as it appears in the Petition
Book.
^^l^^^^^-<^^2^r^
At the meeting of 17th June "the Right Worshipful Master said
he was highly gratified in laying the following letter from the Polish
Brethren before the meeiting —
" 38 Rankeillor Street,
"Edinburgh, a^th June 1835.
" Sir, — Being desirous of expressing the sense we entertain of the
honour conferred upon us in admitting us Members of the Canongate
Kilwinning Lodge, our respect for the Brotherhood, and our regard
for yourself, we beg you will do us thp favour to permit our
countryman, Mr. Samockie, to paint your portrait as Master of the
Prcjicntatton from tlje ffijpatriateb ^oUsii) liretljrm. 207
Lodge, and accept of it as a gift to the Brethren from, Sir, your most
obedient servants." (Signed by ten Polish officers.)
" Addressed to Alexander M'Neill, Esq., Advocate, Right
Worshipful Master of the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge."
To which letter he made the following reply : —
" lothjune 1835.
" Gentlemen, — I have had the honour to receive your letter pro-
posing that my portrait should be painted by Mr. Samockie, and in
acceding to your request I beg to assure you that I feel extremely
grateful and honoured by this mark of your kindness, and in name of
the Lodge I can also assure you that they will ever entertain a grate-
ful sense of the compliment you have conferred. We have considered
ourselves flattered in being able to write ypu amongst our Members,
and our best wishes will always accompany you in whatever situation
you may be placed, and I am, &c.,
" (Signed) A. M'NEILL."
"Addressed to Lieut. Stanislas Polinski, &c., and the other
Polish Masonic Brethren, Edinburgh."
This was approved of, and a vote of thanks passed to the Poles for
their kindness.
The draft of the Bye-Laws, for the framing of which a special Com-
mittee was recently appointed, together with the report of the Com-
mittee thereon, were then laid before the meeting. The report was
approved of, and ordered to be engrossed in the Sederunt Book, and
the Bye-Laws were recommitted to a Committee to be revised and
proofs distributed before the 24th curt., when the election of Office-
bearers for the ensuing year would take place.
" The report of the Special Committee for framing Bye-Laws and
Regulations for the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning " is recorded at
length, and contains much matter of a very interesting Masonic char-
acter. It winds up as follows : — " In conclusion, the Committee have
2o8 E\)t eianongate ^tltDittnmg %oi^t, ^a. 2.
only to request that you will give to their united endeavours your candid
consideration, prepared cheerfully to bow to your decision thereupon,
and with truth they declare that, whatever may be your final verdict,
they shall ever feel proud of the confidence reposed in them in ap-
pointing them to so important a charge, an appointment, they feel
persuaded, in itself, a proof among many of the increasing desire to
support the character of the Craft, and in particular, the interest of
the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning. The day, they would fain hope,
is not far distant — nay, is already come — ^when the pure and elevating
principles of Freemasonry shall be fully appreciated and practised
in these realms, when our high and holy association shall no longer
be stigmatised as immoral or ridiculed as puerile ; but when it shall
take its station among the noble institutions of the land, which have
for their object the improvement of mankind, both moral and material,
and the, union of the whole into one great and glorious brotherhood.
^Jam redit et virgo redeunt Masonicd Regnal "*
On 24th June Brother A. M'Neill was re-elected Master for the
sixth time, and amongst the other Office-bearers appears the name of
James Hogg as Poet-Laureate. The meeting was called by advertise-
ment in the now defunct Edinburgh Courant, and the revised proof of
the Bye-Laws having been submitted to the Lodge and approved of,
the meeting adjourned to dinner, which was provided in the Lodge-
room. It was resolved to present an address of condolence to His
Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, M.W. Grand Master of England,
" upon the affliction with which it has pleased Providence to visit him."
An address was then drawn up " To His Royal Highness the Duke
of Sussex, Earl of Inverness, Baron Arklow, &c., &c.," and Brother
Lord Ramsay was requested to present the same. The address is
engrossed in the Minutes at length. This evening Brother A. Mackie,
Past Secretary of the Lodge, was presented with a splendid gold
watch as a token of respect for his great attention to the duties of his
* " Undefiled as a virgin the masonic kingdoms return."
l.y.H. aije pttke oC ^vrn^tx, «g.fl«. fttajjon of ffiitjlanb. 209
office, and on the occasion of his being about to leave the country for
the East Indies.
At the meeting of nth December twenty-one initiations were
reported, amongst them being David Rhind, architect; Sir John
Rose Cormack, M,D., &c., Paris ; Count L. Zamoyski, Lord Dudley
Coutts Stuart, M.P., Marshal Waldimar Gadon, Major J. Urbanowicz,
Chief Commander of the Samogitian Patriots ; and other distinguished
men of that period. Appended is a fac-simile of Lord Dudley Coutts
Stuart's audiograph.
^ <-c,Mc^ /a-^^ U^
The Lodge was this evening favoured with a visit from Prince
Czartoryski, who was unanimously elected an Honorary Member of
the Lodge, and was pleased to express himself much gratified with
the honour and the reception he had met with. Lord Ramsay took
occasion to observe, that in pursuance of the resolution of the Lodge
on the 24th June last, he had presented the address, voted on that
day, to His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, who had been
pleased to express himself much gratified with the attention of the
Brethren of this Lodge, and had forwarded to his Lordship the fol-
lowing answer : —
" To the R.W. Master, Wardens, and Brethren of the ancient Lodge
Canongate Kilwinning in the City of Edinburgh.
"Brethren, — Accept my sincere and best thanks for your kind and
affectionate address which I have this day had the satisfaction to receive
from the hands of the noble Brother the Lord Ramsay, conveying the
expression of your sympathy with me on the severe affliction under which
I have for some time past been suffering, and of your earnest prayer that it
may please the Almighty speedily to restore to me the enjoyment of perfect
health.
"To the Dispensations of the Divine Will it is my endeavoiu", as it is my
duty, to submit with resignation, and to His mercy and goodness I look with
humble confidence for a restoration to the blessing of sight, from the enjoy-
ment of which I have so long been nearly deprived.
27
2IO ^\)t danoiigatc ^Utomninj |Dol)sc, ^o. 2.
" The expression of your approval of the manner in which I have dis-
charged the important duties of Grand Master of Masons in England is
most acceptable to me. I have ever viewed the Masonic World as one
Body connected by the strongest ties of affinity, governed in their actions by
the same principles of Universal Benevolence, and seeking to advance the
general good ; but more especially have the operations and advantages of
these principles impressed themselves on my mind and engaged my attention
in reference to the Craft in the different portions of the British Empire, where
the Community of National interest is concurrent with our Fraternal regards
as Masons. To cement and preserve these rny best , energies will ever be
exerted, and I pray the Great Architect of the Universe to prosper the works
of all the sister Lodges, to grant Health and Comfort to the Brethren indivi-
dually, and to continue to the end of time mutual affection and Brotherly
Love.
"(Signed) AUGUSTUS FREDERICK, G.M.
"Kensington Palace, wthjuly, a.l. 5835,
"A.D. 1835.
" By command of His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex.
"(Signed) WILLIAM H. WHITE, G.S.,
" of Grand Lodge of England."
" The Brethren stood up w^hile Lord Ramsay read the above answ^er,
and testified their approbation and respect for the fraternal manner in
which His Royal Highness had been pleased to accept their address,
and the unanimous thanks of the meeting were voted to Lord Ramsay
for the faithful discharge of the trust reposed in him in presenting the
same."
James Hogg did not survive long after his initiation, for having
suffered severely for four weeks he died on the 21st November 1835,
as calmly, " and to all appearance with as little pain, as if he had
fallen asleep in his grey plaid on the side of a moorland rill." At
the Monthly Meeting of 27th January 1836, the R.W. Master took
occasion to. observe "that as the office of Poet-Laureate had been
vacant since the lamented death of Brother James Hogg, the Ettrick
Shepherd, and as they had had this evening the honour of initiating
into the Craft a gentleman who was well known as the able trans-
lator of the Greek Anthology, he suggested that if that Brother could
?BeatI) of ^ogg, ?o£t-^an«ate, anb (Election of a ^utteissor. 211
be prevailed upon to accept the ofifice for the remainder of the year,
the Lodge would feel proud of naming him as the successor of Brother
Hogg. This proposition was cordially received by the Lodge, and
Brother William Hay* was unanimously elected Poet-Laureate for
the remainder of the year." Brother David Rhind was then appointed
Architect and Superintendent of Works to the Lodge.
A Committee was appointed to consider the propriety " of having
a Masonic Ball, the profits of which to be appropriated towards the
Subscription now being raised for the benefit of the widow and family
of the late Brother James Hogg."
On 6th April the Secretary reported that since last meeting forty-
two gentlemen were initiated in this Lodge. In the list recorded are
the names of Robert Grant of Kincorth, Esq.; W. M. Steuart of
Glenmorriston ; Sir Walter Elliot of Wolflee, H.E.LC.S.; James Blair
of Glenfoot ; Mr. Scott Kerr of Chatto ; and Captain Walter Scott,
H.E.I.C.S.'
* "The Lintieo' Moray."
CHAPTER XV.
j^^HE Members of the Roman Eagle Lodge celebrated their
J I jubilee meeting in St. John's Chapel on Tuesday, loth
-*- February 1835. "The application for the hall having
been considered, the unanimous opinion was that, out of respect to
Brother Marshall, R.W.M., and considering that it is the jubilee
meeting of the Roman Eagle Lodge, they resolved to grant his
request." It may be here remarked that it was on the same
evening, 6th February 1835, when Lord Ramsay was initiated, that
Brother James Deans was admitted a full and free Member of Canon-
gate Kilwinning.
On 24th June 1836 Mr. M'Neill was, for the seventh time, elected
R.W. Master, and on his taking a retrospect of the proceedings for
the past year, stated " that it was impossible not to feel extremely
gratified at the progress which Masonry had made, more particularly
in this Lodge, a result which was attributable to Brother James
Burnes more than to any other. I speak," said the R.W.M., " my
own individual sentiments, and I am convinced that I alike speak the
sentiments of every Brother of the Lodge when I say that Brother
Burnes deserves every encomium that we can bestow, all the good-will
that we can offer — in a word, our most hearty and grateful thanks.
. . . I do feel, my Brethren, that I should not perform the duty
incumbent on this chair if I neglected to propose, that the cordial
thanks of this Lodge be tendered to Brother James Burnes, LL.D.,
F.R.S., for his great and meritorious exertions during the past year
(ffentenarg of tlje (Sranl) l^oJlge of ^totlanl). 213
in advancing the cause of Masonry in this country, and in this Lodge
in particular."
The Secretary was directed to transmit a copy of this Minute to
Brother Burnes. The first Monthly Meeting of the season was held
on 9th November, when it was referred to the Committee " to consider
the propriety of tendering to Grand Lodge the use of the picture of
St. Clair of Rosslyn at the ensuing celebration of the Centenary of
the Grand Lodge of Scotland on the 30th inst." The Lodge was
specially summoned to meet on 8th March 1837 in consequence of a
notification from the Right Hon. Lord Ramsay, M.W. Grand Master,
of his intention to visit the Lodge, accompanied by the other Grand
Lodge dignitaries. On this occasion the Secretary reported "that
upwards of seventy Members of this Lodge had attended on St.
Andrew's Day last at the celebration of the Centenary of the
Grand Lodge of Scotland, on which occasion nearly one thousand
Brethren assembled, and that the Committee had tendered the use of
the picture of St. Clair of Rosslyn, which had been accepted with
thanks by the Grand Lodge, and that it had been returned to the
Lodge without injury." On 24th June the R.W. Master referred to
the decease of his late Majesty King William IV., Patron of the
Order, and moved " that a Committee be appointed to prepare an
address of condolence and congratulation to Her Most Gracious
Majesty Queen Victoria." At the Monthly Meeting on 6th Novem-
ber it was reported that an address had been drawn up —
" To the Queen's Most Excellent Majesty."
It is embodied in the Minute of this date, and before transmission
to Lord John Russell, Secretary of State, had been engrossed on
vellum. The following answer was received : —
"Whitehall, 14//^ August 1837.
" Sir, — I have had the honour to lay before the Queen the loyal
214 2fl)« €anong«te ^tltotntring IDoige, jffo. 2.
and dutiful address, on the occasion of Her Majesty's Accession to
the Throne, from the Master, Wardens, and Brethren of the ancient
Lodge of Freemasons Canongate Kilwinning, Edinburgh.
" And I have the honour to inform you the same was very graciously
received by her Majesty.
" I have the honour to be, Sir,
" Your most obedient Servant,
"(Signed) J.RUSSELL.
" The Master — to be enclosed to Mr. Deans."
The above letter, neatly framed and surmounted with a crown, is
still in possession of the Lodge, and hangs on the south wall of the
hall.
On 27th December 1837, two deputations were formed to visit the
Edinburgh Lodges. One of them returned and reported that they
had been most hospitably received. The other " not having returned
at high twelve, the Lodge was closed and adjourned."
A convivial meeting was held on 17th January 1838, and one of
the prominent toasts of the evening was "Prosperity to the Free-
masons' School for Female Children" about to be established in
Edinburgh, and of which many Members of this Lodge had become
supporters.
"On St.' John the Baptist's Day Brother M'J^eill proposed as R.W.
Master for the ensuing year " a Brother who had, in addition to his
other qualifications, the happiness of being the son and grandson of
two Brethren who had filled that Chair ; he alluded to his esteemed
friend Henry Jardine, Advocate."
On 27th December it was unanimously carried, " that some short
historical account of the Lodge should be prepared, and for that purpose
I^ort ProBojstsf, dranJ) |Ua«ter0, anil (Branb ©rtaistirer. 215
a Committee was appointed to investigate the records of the Lodge
and to report." No action, however, appears to have been taken in
the matter, and the subject was allowed to drop. Professor Aytoun
was elected R.W.M. on 24th June 1839, and a Grand Lodge visitation
headed by the Gi'and Master, Sir James Forrest of Comiston, Bart.,
Lord Provost of Edinburgh, took place on i6th January 1840.
During the evening one of the officers of the 78th Highlanders
remarked that he had visited a Lodge in the centre of the Island of
Ceylon, which was at that time composed entirely of natives, and his
reception by them could not be exceeded in any other Lodge
whatever.
The R.W. Master, in acknowledging " the honour conferred by the
Grand Master, and in reference to his holding at the same time the
office of Lord Provost of the city, took occasion to notice an histori-
cal fact connected with the latter, namely, that out of thirty-nine
individuals who had held the office of Lord Provost during the sixty-
five years preceding 1803, no less than fifteen of them were Members
of this Lodge ; these fifteen filling the Civic Chair for a period of
forty-four out of the sixty-five years, and that three of these fifteen
had been Grand Masters, and one, the late Sir James Hunter Blair,
for many years filled the office of Grand Treasurer." On i8th March
two apprentices of the Paris Lodge " La Rose du Parfait Silence,"
were passed and raised to the degree of Master Masons ; and the
Committee of isth June resolved that a rent of three guinccis per
annum would in future be charged to the Royal Arch Chapter and
the Priory for the use of the Chapel.
The following is an extract from the Minute of the 12th of August :
— " Resolved, That for the purpose of facilitating the arrangements
on the occasion of laying the Foundation Stone of the Monument
to the memory of Sir Walter Scott, Bart., the Brethren shall
assemble in St. John's Chapel at twelve o'clock on the 15 th inst, and
proceed to the University."
On this date the Lodge met, when four gentlemen were passed and
raised, and then the Minute records the
2i6 Sri^e Qlanon9a:te ^tltomntng |lo!)ge, ^o. 2.
"PROCESSION
ON THE OCCASION OF
LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE
OF
THE MONUMENT
TO THE MEMORY OF
SIR WALTER SCOTT, BART.
"This splendid and interesting ceremonial occurred this day,
the 15 th of August, being the anniversary of the birth of the
immortal Scott, under the most favourable circumstances. . . .
The R.W. Master and Wardens of the Lodge Edinburgh Mary's
Chapel . . . presented the Grand Master with an elegant silver
trowel, which bore the following inscription: — 'To commemorate the
laying the Foundation Stone of the Monument in Edinburgh in honour
of the immortal Scott, this Trowel, to be used at the Ceremony, was
presented to the Right Hon. Sir James Forrest, Bart, Lord Provost of.
Edinburgh, Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason over all Scotland,
by the Right Worshipful Master, Office-bearers, and Brethren of the
Grand Master's Mother Lodge, the Ancient Lodge of Edinburgh,
No. I. August isth, 1840.'"
A plate containing the following inscription was deposited in the
foundation stone : —
" This graven PLATE, deposited in the base of a votive building
on the isth day of August, in the year of Christ 1840, and never
likely again to see the light till the surrounding structures are
crumbled to dust by the decay of time or elemental violence, may
then testify to a distant posterity that his countrymen began on this
day to raise an effigy and architectural monument to
The Memory oe Sir Walter Scott, Bart.,
whose admirable writings are allowed to have afforded more delight
and suggested better feelings, to a larger class of readers than those
of any other author, with the exception of Shakespeare ; and which
were, therefore, thought likely to be remembered long after this act
of gratitude on the part of the first generation of his admirers should
be forgotten.
"He was born in Edinburgh, isth August 1771, and died at
Abbotsford, 21st September 1832."
Another plate containing the names of the OfRce-bearers of the
Grand Lodge, &c., was deposited in the stone, and a glass jar
containing coins, newspapers, &c.
It appears that a tavern bill had several times been presented to
the Lodge for payment, but as the contents had been contracted
between isth August 1827 and i8th June 1832, the Brethren declined
to liquidate the amount. On nth December 1840 a summons was
served on the Master and Office-bearers, when George Gumming,
W.S., was instructed to remove the case from the jurisdiction of the
Sheriff on the plea that a majority of the defenders were members of
the College of Justide, or to proceed otherwise as he thought proper.
Ultimately a Committee was appointed to search the records for
similar items, and they reported that such entries were made at
various times, although the attention of the Lodge had never been
specially directed to the subject. It was thereupon resolved to meet
with the tavern-keeper and obtain as amicable a settlement as
possible, but only " on the understanding that the liability of the
Lodge for this claim is not admitted, nor for any other charge in-
curred without the full and express sanction of the Lodge."
On 7th April 1841 the Secretary, Brother Lloyd, was presented
with a Masonic Jewel on the occasion of his departure for New
Zealand, where he would hold the office of Provincial Grand Master.
At this meeting also, a Committee was appointed to attend to the
"improvement of the Diploma plate, and to obtain a supply of
Diplomas on the most advantageous terms." Brother James Blair of
Glenfoot was elected R.W. Master on 24th June, and " about one
28
2i8 i:i)e ®anonga:te Ptltninntng l^obge, ^o. 2.
hundred Brethren sat down to supper, which, with the dinner and the
wines, afforded much satisfaction. The R.W.M., Brother Blair, pre-
sided at dinner with the greatest urbanity and dignity. . . . The
Past Master pronounced the usual closing benediction, when the
Brethren separated." On St. Andrew's Day Brother Blair was
elected Junior Grand Deacon. At the meeting of 9th February 1842
the Tyler was desired to get the roof and back part of the Committee-
room examined " on account of the dampness."
A meeting was called on 25 th August for the purpose of consider-
ing what should be done as to the Lodge joining the proposed
procession of the Grand Lodge to lay the foundation stone of the
General Assembly Hall of the Established Kirk of Scotland during
the intended visit of Her Most Gracious Majesty to the Scottish
Metropolis, when, after a good deal of discussion, it was agreed
"that the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning deem it inexpedient that
they should take any part as a body in such a procession," and that
this be communicated to the Grand Secretary.
A Monthly Meeting was held on 8th February 1843, at which it
was stated that a Deputation from this Lodge had attended the
Convivial Meeting of the Lodge Edinburgh Mary's Chapel, No. i,
on the previous evening, and that in consequence of certain proceed-
ings which had there occurred it was unanimously resolved that the
Grand Secretary be immediately requested to convene a meeting of
the Grand Committee, for the purpose of investigating what had taken
place, with the view of bringing the whole proceedings under the
notice of the Grand Lodge.
The next Minute is dated loth February, and is headed " Special
Meeting of Masters and Wardens of Edinburgh Lodges." Present,
the R.W.M. and Wardens of Canongate Kilwinning, the R.W.M. and
Wardens of Canongate and Leith Leith and Canongate, the R.W.M.
and Wardens of Journeymen, the R.W.M. and Wardens of St. David's,
the R.W.M. and Wardens of St. Andrew's, the R.W.M. and Wardens
of St. James', the R.W.M. and Wardens of St. Stephen's, the R.W.M.
and Wardens of Defensive Band, the R.W.M. and Wardens of Roman
%aVu» in ittargV (S^iOftl, fio. i. 219
Eagle, the R.W.M. and Wardens of Celtic. The Lodge was opened
in the first Degree, and Kenneth M'Leay, R.S.A., was entered
Apprentice. The R.W.M. Brother Smith then stated the object of
the meeting. . . . After the matter was thoroughly discussed, the
following resolution was unanimously agreed to ; it was signed, accord-
ingly, by all the Masters and Wardens present, and forwarded
immediately to the Grand Secretary :—
" St. John's Chapel,
"Edinburgh, \oth February 1843.
" We, the Masters and Wardens of all the Edinburgh Lodges, in full
Lodge assembled at St. John's Chapel, Canongate Kilwinning, having
taken into consideration various reports relative to the late meeting
of the Lodge Edinburgh Mary's Chapel No. i, held on the 7th inst,
reports which, if well founded, are inconsistent with the first rules and
principles of Freemasons and Freemasonry, Request that a meeting of
the Grand Committee be forthwith called for the purpose of " making
such inquiries, taking such proof, and adopting such proceedings as
to them may, seem meet, with a view of reporting quatn primam to a
pro re nata meeting of the Grand Lodge."
The Master and an Office-bearer of the Lodge William Frederick
at Amsterdam visited the meeting of 14th February, and both were
unanimously assumed Honorary Members of Canongate Kilwinning.
The " proceedings " in question, to which such prompt action and
decided exception was taken, was the presence of ladies at the
celebration of the Annual Festival of Mary's Chapel, held in the
Waterloo Rooms on 7th February. The above resolution was laid
before Grand Committee at a meeting held on i6th February, and
both the Master and Past Master of Mary's Chapel attended to give
explanations of the circumstance. Ultimately the whole question
was remitted to Grand Lodge on ist March 1843, when "a motion
was made to suspend the Lodge of Edinburgh (Mary's Chapel), for
twelve months j " but as it appeared that only two or three of the
220 STIje (Sanongate fltltntnntng |Dot)ge, fLo. 2.
Members of the Lodge were aware that ladies were to be admitted,
an amendment to the following effect was carried : — " In respect
that the irregularity was not persisted in when complained of, and
also that those Brethren acted from inadvertency merely, and
have expressed great contrition for their conduct : Find, That it is
sufficient to visit the same with a severe reprimand, and direct the
Acting Grand Master to reprimand them accordingly." Whereupon
" the .offending Brethren were called in front of the Acting Grand
Master, and were by him reprimanded, in accordance with the finding
of Grand Lodge."
CHAPTER XVI.
jTN concluding these extracts from the records of Canongate
J I Kilwinning, space will not admit of transcribing at any
length the details of interest which appear in the books
subsequent to this period. Without being too concise, however, a
sketch of the leading events is given in this chapter.
On the 6th May 1843, the Right Hon. Lord Glenlyon, D.G.M.,
opened the Lodge and presided during the evening, when he initiated
Colonel John Kinloch of Kelvie. Thereafter Lord Glenlyon was
made an Honorary Member. At the Committee Meeting of the
19th of June, the offices of Secretary and Treasurer were recom-
mended to be conjoined, and this was confirmed at the Annual
Meeting. On isth November, the Hon. Henry Walpole of St.
David's Lodge was affiliated a full and free Member, and the
ballot was taken for John Drummond, Esq. of Hawthornden.
Thomas Diybrough was initiated on 6th December this year. At
the present date (1888) this Brother retains a warm interest in the
Lodge. He has held, during his long connection with it, the chair of
R.W.M. for four years, and acted as Treasurer for many years, besides
having filled other offices. The Lodge owes Brother Drybrough a
debt of gratitude for the many substantial services he has rendered to
it. At a meeting on the loth of this month the following gentlemen,
amongst others, were initiated : Richard Hay Drummond of Haw-
thornden ; Andrew Wauchope, Esq. of Niddry ; and James Pringle,
Esq. of Stichell.
A Special Meeting of the Committee took place on 5th January
222 Si:t)e €)a:non9ate ^tltDinntng ILobge, ^o. 2.
1844, when the R.W.M. "stated that he had a Schedule of Protest
served upon him by certain parties pretending to dispute the Lodge's
right of entrance by St. John Street." The parties stated that a bond
over the property of John Morison had been granted by him in their
favour, but owing to his bankruptcy the property had now fallen
into their possession. The matter was referred to Brother John
Jamieson as Law Agent, to report to next Quarterly Meeting' of
Committee, or to a Special Meeting, to be called if found necessary.
"Brother Professor Aytoun presented the Committee, to be the
property of the Lodge, with a very interesting document which he
had found amongst family papers, viz. : the original Deed of Election
by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, in favour of William St. Clair of
Rosslyn, the first Grand Master elected by the Grand Lodge, and
bearing date, Edinburgh, 30th November 1736." ; ;;
"The Committee unanimously agreed to record a vote of thanks to '
Brother Aytoun for his very handsome present, and the Secretary
was instructed to get the document framed and suspended in the
Lodge-room." As already mentioned,* this document is still in
possession of the Lodge, and is of much interest to the Masonic
student. In February, deputations visited the sister Lodges of
" Ancient Brazen," Linlithgow, and "Mid-Calder"; and on 13th March,
at a meeting of the Lodge, " by request " of a deputation from St.
David's, a request which " was at once complied with," John GUTHRIE,
Younger of Guthrie, was initiated in the Lodge Canongate Kil-
winning as a Member of the Lodge Edinburgh St. David. It is
recorded on the isth that £1^ was paid for a valid Title for entrance
to the Lodge by St. John Street. On 2nd April, Dr. Thatcher joined
the Lodge, and a deputation attended a " funeral Lodge held by the
Lodge Edinburgh St. Andrew to the memory of their late lamented
Brother Kemp " — the architect of Scott's Monument in Princes Street.
It was proposed in November this year, to invest part of the Lodge
"funds in the purchase of shares in the Guarantee Loan of the
* Fide p. 40.
Iinttent pie of tl)e ^eal of tl)e IDobge. 223
Scottish Freemasons' Life Assurance Association ; " but
better counsels prevailed, and the subject dropped.
On 19th February 1845, it was reported by the R.W.M. that, on the
evening of 14th inst, " he, accompanied by a numerous deputation of
the Brethren of the Lodge, visited the Lodge Edinburgh St. Andrew
on the occasion of its Centenary Meeting, when they were cordially
received and hospitably entertained. The Chair was on that occasion
filled by Brother White Melville, S.G.M."
It is matter of much regret that the ancient Seal of the Lodge has
long ago disappeared, and, as already indicated, cannot now be found.
At a meeting held on 12th March 1845, "the R.W.M. read a letter
he had received from the Clerk of Town Council of the Burgh of
Canongate, intimating that an ancient die of the Seal of the Lodge
had been discovered in the Repositories of the Burgh, and which
the Council had desired him to restore to the Lodge." A vote of
thanks was unanimously carried, " to be conveyed to the Magistrates
and Town Council of the Burgh of Canongate for their kindness in
restoring this ancient die of their Seal to the Lodge."
The subject of the Inauguration Picture of Burns occupied the atten-
tion of the Brethren on 12th November as already detailed, and on 1 5th
August 1846, "a numerous body of the Brethren proceeded as a depu-
tation — at 1 1 o'clock a.m. — to join the procession at the High School
Yards, and having taken up their position as No. 2, proceeded to the
Monument of Sir Walter Scott in Princes Street." The interesting
ceremony of Consecrating the Statue was then performed by the Grand
Master, Lord Glenlyon, in due Masonic style. Several of the Brethren
thereafter joined the Festival in the Music Hall in honourof theoccasion.
It appears that at this period Annual Festivals took place at which
all the Edinburgh Lodges were represented, and these Festivals were
presided over by the R.W.M. of each Lodge in rotation. On the 25th
of February 1847, the meeting was under the direction of the Canon-
gate Kilwinning Lodge, and was attended by deputations from
Canongate and Leith Leith and Canongate ; Mary's Chapel ; Celtic ;
St, David ; Journeymen ; St. Andrew ; St. James' ; Defensive
224 ^^t QTanonsate ^tltotttntng ^ottge, fLo. 2.
Band ; Roman Eagle ; St. Mark's, Glasgow ; and Thistle and Rose,
Glasgow. The music during the evening was supplied " by a first-
rate military band from Piershill, and the voices of many amateur
singing Brethren ; also by the strains from the Harp ' of Brother
Byrne, the last of the old Irish Harpers." On 31st March £s was
received from Brother Thomas Cockburn, London, " for distribution
amongst the poor and distressed Brethren and their families in Edin-
burgh."
At this period a, new Lodge was chartered in the Edinburgh
province, and from its designation — that of St. Clair — it very appro-
priately began its existence within the walls of St. John's Chapel. A
copy of the title-page of the ceremonial used at the consecration
says : —
" CEREMONIAL OF THE CONSECRATION AND ERECTION
OF
THE LODGE ST. CLAIR, EDINBURGH, No. 349,
IN ST. JOHN'S CHAPEL, ST. JOHN STREET
(Canongafe Kilwinning Lodge),
ON MONDAY, 31ST MAY 1847, AT SEVEN O'CLOCK P.M.
o
S;i)e %m. % ^ogle, ^.ffl.f.., dranb dljaplatn, rotll,
bg Special ^Cppottttment of i\t dranti |Lobge, tottbuct tl)e eteremontal.
o
grcther Jttfl^tttisnani, (Sranb Jtitctor of ^ttsic, totU pnsibt at the (Drgan."
It is interesting to note that Lodge St. Clair, for several years
afterwards, rented St. John's Chapel, and added many distinguished
names to the roll of membership during their tenancy. Subsequent
to their relinquishing the Chapel for a more convenient meeting-
place, they, on one occasion at least, were granted the use of the Hall
for their Annual Assembly — a social meeting, the popularity of
which at the present time is second to none in the province.
%itrtt. maUtt ^cott |:otkl)art ^tott of libbot^fort. 225
On 9th February 1848, the initiations of five distinguished officers
took place, including " Walter Scott Lockhart Scott of Abbotsford,
Lieut. 1 6th Lancers," and amongst those present was Lord Fergus
Kennedy, of the Grand Lodge of England, who replied to the toast of
the Earl of Zetland, G.M. of that body. The R.W.M., in proposing
the toast of the evening, said " that, when he looked around him and
beheld a descendant of that immortal man Sir Walter Scott (tre-
mendous cheering), and then so many of those who, when occasion
requires, are ready valiantly to fight under the banner of their country,
he must say he felt no small degree of pride in having been the
humble means of enrolling such men under the ancient and no less
honourable banner of the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge." The
toast was replied to by Captain William John Wilson, Madras Army,
" in name of himself and fellow-apprentices."
The last meeting of the season was held on 1 2th April, and whilst
preparations were being made for the introduction of candidates, " it
was moved by Brother Sir T. Dunbar, Bart, that thanks be accorded
to the Office-bearers in the Lodge who had held office during last
year" — for the able and efficient manner in which they performed
their various duties. Colonel James M'Dowal of Logan was entered
on 4th August, and " Brother Colonel Kinloch proposed his friend.
Brother Lord Raneleigh, as an Honorary Member."
On the 13th, when Sir John Don Wauchope of Edmonston, Bart.,
was initiated, the matter of weekly meetings being discontinued was
referred to opinion of Brother Gavin and Dr. Somerville, who referred
the subject to the first meeting in February. The matter, however,
does not appear to have been again brought up. In those days it
was no easy matter to get admission to the Lodge, neither was
charity dispensed unless the genuineness of the applicant was fully
tested. The following case — briefly recorded here, though fully set
forth in the Minutes — will clearly prove this. The Secretary stated
that there was in waiting a person named James Ponton, who stated
that he was entered, passed, and raised in Canongate Kilwinning on
24th June 1813. On referring to that date, no such name was
29
'225 W)t S^anbttjfttc ^tlnimrttng '|D6li|Je, fbo. '2.
mehtionefl, the nearest to it being "James Pott." Qn referring to
'Grand Secretary, ' heitHer bf those names, it was found, had, been
recorded in Grand Lodge books. In addition to these obstacles,
Mr. Ponton, although he stated ntany circumstances connected with
the ceremony of initiation, had altogether failed to impart the peculiar
token by which true Brethren are known to each other. Under these
circumstances, the R.W.M. decided that it was necessary, in order to
prevent all chance of being imposed upon, that the applicant (for
charity) should go through the ceremony of initiation ; but as he
stated that his fees had been paid before, they be now dispensed
with. At the following meeting on 7th February, he was passed and
raised, and although not recorded, there is every reason to believe
that pecuniary assistance was then bestowed, on him.
Lord Gilbert Kennedy was initiated on 21st February, and at next
meeting in March each of the Lodge Trustees agreed to pay £2i> 3s-
.towards defraying expense of drainage action or damage, for which a
receipt was granted, bearing that the amount would be refunded when-
ever the Lodge funds would admit of it. Each acknowledgment was
duly sealed with the Lodge Seal. On 14th Marph another of the long
line of celebrated artistes of the Edinburgh stage who had been con-
nected with the Lodge was initiated, in- the person of R. H. Wyndham
of the Theatre Royal, who subsequently held office for several years
as Director of Ceremonies. The Hon. William George Boyle was
entered apprentice.
On 19th December 1849, the affiliation of W. N. Fraser of Torna-
veen took place. This highly-esteemed Brother, whose Mother
Lodge is Old St. Machar, Aberdeen, was elected R.W.M. in 1853,
when Lord Loughborough acted as Depute Master, and was a second
time elected to the chair of the Lodge in 1865, having succeeded the
Earl of Strathmore. He has, for many years, presided as Chairman
of Committee, and at present (1888) occupies that position.
Lord Nigel, Brother of Lord Gilbert Kennedy, was initiated on 30th
January 1850, and at the next meeting on 13th February, when a
numerous assemblage took place, the R.W.M. proposed the health of
. ^tctoact WLxt^on, fainter of tlje Enattgaratton pittare. 227
" Bro. Bertie (known better to the public as Mr. Ranger), who during
a long period had held so distinguished a place among the Pro-
fessors of the British Drama." On 13th November the Brethren
were asked their opinion on the motion just carried in the Grand
Lodge, enacting that a fortnight must elapse between conferring each
degree, when it was agreed to observe how the system worked until
next Grand Lodge Meeting, and act accordingly. His Grace the
Duke of Athole, G.M., presided at the meeting on Sth February, and
conducted the business during the whole evening. On the 12th of
February 1851, the Hon. Alexander Eric George Sinclair was initiated,
and attended several of the subsequent meetings. On St. John's Day the
R.W. Master presented to the Lodge " an antique clock." It would
be interesting to know where this clock is now to be found. The
Lodge affairs were discussed this evening, and a deputation was sent
to the Lodge St. Clair, they being visited this evening by the Grand
Master.
On I Sth February 1852, it was explained that the Royal Arch Chap-
ter, No, 56, paid a rent of ;^6 to the Lodge. A large deputation from St.
David's visited the meeting on 31st March, when the Minute records at
length the usual compliments that were interchanged on the occasion.
The inauguration of the Statue of the Duke of Wellington, in front of
H.M. General Register House, took place on i8th June with Masonic
honours. Brother Pringle, P.L., asked on loth November "what had
become of the print of Brother Stewart Watson's picture of the
Inauguration of Burns, which had been subscribed for by the Lodge,
and moved that the Secretary be empowered to furnish the same,
which was unanimously agreed to.'' It is worthy of notice that Mr.
Stewart Watson was at this period Secretary and Treasurer of the
Lodge, and signed each Minute as such. On 9th March a deputation
from West Calder Lodge, No. 290, consisting of the Master, Office-
bearers, and a few members, was received " with all Masonic honours."
It appears that the R.W. Mcister of the West Calder Lodge was
initiated in Canongate Kilwinning, and the rather lengthy Minute
concludes thus : " and an evening being spent in the greatest harmony,
228 SCfie eiattongate ^tttotrttttng l^olrje, ^o. 2.
enlivened by many songs from the Brethren and tunes from the brass
band of Germans in attendance," the Lodge was closed. On 15th
June the R.W.M. resigned, a,nd took a long and sad farewell of the
Brethren of the Canongate Kilwinning, having shortly to depart for
Canada. " Before resigning the mallet he begged the Lodge to accept
of two volumes of the Roll of Members of the Lodge Canongate Kilwin-
ning, compiled by himself, as a small keepsake of his regard for his
Mother Lodge." The thanks of the Lodge were tendered to Brother
Mowbray for this handsome present. On ist of August 1853, Lord
Loughborough was affiliated, and invested as Depute Master of the
Lodgfe. As Earl of Rosslyn, his lordship afterwards was Grand Master
Mason of Scotland.
Members of Canongate Kilwinning Lodge who have been Grand
Master Masons qf Scotland : —
Initiated Affiliated ^^^^
William St. Clair of Rosslyn 1736 ... 1736
William NisBET of Dirleton, 1744 1746
George Drummond, Lord Provost of Edinburgh (R.W.M. of
Canongate Kilwinning, 1764), . . , 1752 1752
Charles Hamilton Gordon, Advocate 1752 ... 1753
James, Master of Forbes, afterwards l6th Baron Forbes, . . ... 1754 1754
Sholto Charles, Lord Aberdour, afterwards i6th Earl of Morton, 1755 ... 1756
David, 6th Earl of Leven, 1757 1760
James Stewart, Lord Provost of Edinburgh 1755 ••■ 1766
George, 8th Earl of Dalhousie 1766 ... 1768
Lieut.-General James Adolphus Oughton 1754 1770
David Dalrymple, afterwards Lord Westhall, .... 1747 ... 1775
Sir William Forbes of Pitsligo, Bart 1759 ... 1777
Alexander, 6th Earl of Balcarres, 1775 ... 1781
George, Lord Haddo, 1778 ... 1785
Francis Charteris, Junr. of Amisfield, Lord Elcho I779 1787
Francis, 7th Lord Napier 1775 ... 1789
George, 17th Earl of Horton 1789 ... 1791
William, Earl of Ancrum, afterwards 6th Marquis of Lothian, . 1792 ... 1795
K^t (Irani) HtffjJter a Jttcmber of energ pattgfjter %oii^t. 229
Initiated Affiliated
Francis, Lord Doune, afterwards gth Earl of Moray, . . . 1792
George, 9th Earl of Dalhousie 1802
James Andrew, Lord Ramsay, afterwards loth Earl and ist
Marquis of E)alhousie 1835
P'RANCis Robert, 4th Earl of Rosslyn (Depute Master, Canongate
Kilwinning, 1853) 1853
Grand
Master
1797
1 80s
1837
1870
In 1756, when Lord Aberdour was Grand Master, "it was unani-
mously resolved that the Grand Master for the time being be affiliated
and recorded as a member of every Daughter Lodge in Scotland."
The above list, therefore, only contains the names of those who were
initiated in the Lodge and those who were affiliated prior to their
occupying the Chair of the Grand Orient.
The three last Grand Lodge visitations took place on the following
dates : — 2Sth March 1863, when it was headed by the Duke of Athole ;
20th December 1877, on the occasion of the Lodge celebrating its Bi-
centenary, headed by Sir Michael Shaw Stewart Bart. ; and on 25th
January 1884, on the occasion of the celebration of the Festival
commemorative of the natal day of BURNS and HOGG, headed by the
Right Hon. the Earl of Mar and Kellie.
Annexed is a list of Lodges at present existing " in and about "
Edinburgh, with their respective dates of institution, and colour of
clothing : —
No.
Name.
When Instituted.
Colours.
The Lodge of Edinburgh (Mary's
Chapel
Canongate Ivilwinning
Canongate and Leith Leith and
Canongate
Journeymen
Dalkeith Kilwinning
Unknown
20th December 1677
I
1688
1709
1724
Light Blue.
Crimson.
Crimson.
Dark Blue.
Crimson and Silver.
230
®I)e danongate ^iltoiitmitg %diSQt, fio. 2.
No.
Name.
When Instituted.
Colours.
36
44
48
97
I4S
151
160
223
226
291
349
392
40s
597
St. David (originally Canongate
from Leith) ^ ..,
Holyrood House (St. Luke)
St. Andrew (originally the Scots
Lodge in Canongate)
St. James
St. Stephen
Edinburgh Defensive Band
Roman Eagle ..J
Trafalgar Leith ,
Portobello
Celtic Edinburgh and Leith
St. Clair
Caledonian
Rifle :
North British Railway
7th February 1739
i8th May 1744
2nd April 1745
19th August 1765
iSth September 1777
4th November 1782
7th February 1785
1st February 1808
1st August 1808
■ 7th May 1821
3rd May 1847
2nd May 1859
7th May i860
Sth February 1877
Dark Green.
Crimson.
Mazarene Blue & Yellow.
Dark Blue.
Green.
Blue and Orange.
Scarlet.
Red, White, and Blue.
Dark Blue.
Royal Stuart Tartan.
Crimson.
Hunting Stuart Tartan.
Thistle Green.
Dark Blue.
From numerous entries which visitors from a distance have made
in the Lodge Attendance Book, the following two are copied here, the
first having been written by the Poet-Laureate of Freemasonry in
America : —
. "August 9, 1878. — This day, under guidance of R.W.M. and
Rob. S. Brown, I visited the Hall of the Old Canongate Kilwinning
Lodge No. 2, and saw, with profound emotion, the place consecrated
in the memory of so many great and good masons.
" ROB. MORRIS, LL.D.,
" Pasi Grand Master of Kentucky, U.S.A"
?i?
y s
IQ
n E
(Celebration of tl)e ISufilentenarg of tl)e l^obge. 231
"July 20, 1881. — I have had the pleasure of inspecting the Lodge-
room Furniture, Minute Books, etc., of the Lodge Canongate Kilwin-
ning, an act fraught with especial interest, and which will ever be
cherished in remembrance.
"JOHN MILLS BROWNE,
" Past Grand Master of California."
On 17th September 1877, the Members of the Lodge commenced,
with a Concert, a Series of Musical and Literary Entertainments,
which were attended by numerous deputations from the Sister
Lodges, and which led up to the Bi-Centenary Celebration held
on 20th December of that year. The Grand Master, Sir Michael
Shaw Stewart, presided on this important occasion, and in proposing
the toast of the evening, said : —
" It was an occasion of very great importance, not only to
this Lodge, but to , Scottish Masonry, that this night, 20th
December, two hundred years ago, in 1677, their Mother Lodge
was founded. (Applause.) He was struck when he received
a memorandum of the roll in printed form containing, in some
respects, a history of the Lodge. He knew it was an ancient
Lodge, he knew it by name and reputation, but he certainly
was struck on reading the list of names of the men of distinction who
had been made Masons, initiated, or affiliated in this Lodge. There
were men of renown in all walks of life — soldiers, lawyers, and pro-
fessional men of every description. They had indeed a history to
cherish, and he felt sure it would not suffer by the Brethren of this
generation. (Applause.) It was a curious thing to reilect upon, that
this night 200 years ago, in this very district, he believed, this Lodge was
founded. Let any one imagine for a moment being taken back 2CX)
years, to find himself suddenly placed in the company which was then
assembled. The company might not be so large as the present. He
would, no doubt, be surprised at their manners and customs and ways
of carrying on the business, but he did not doubt the ancient company
232 Sl)t GTanottgatc l^ilTotnmng |lobge, ^o. 2.
would be found equally qualified for any amount of conviviality.
(Laughter and applause.) Then let them imagiije, for a moment, if
one of the founders of the, Lodge could be brotight in flesh and blood
amongst them that night. Did they not think he would be. rather
astonished ? (Laughter.) In the first place, the ancient visitor would
see them all dressed not only in Masonic but evening costume — in
sombte serious black, that perhaps might make the visitor feel rather
dismal. (Laughter.) Fancy taking one of the heroes of the past, one
of the founders of their Lodge, a trip through to Glasgow the one
hour .and bringing him back the next, or still more wonderful, giving
him a trip to London on the ' Flying Scotsman ' — that would astonish
him — (laughter) — or introduce him to the telephone, and he would
immediately jump back 200 years. (Laughter.) It was indeed a
matter for soine congratulation their meeting on this 200th anniver-
sary of the foundation of the Lodge. He believed that No. I—
Mary's Chapel — was the only one, besides Canongate Kilwinning, now
in existence of the four Lodges who met together for the institution
of the Grand Master Mason of 'Scotland. (Applause.) He could
only express the hope, as indeed it was his belief, that their ancient
history was a memory which would be cherished by the members of
the Lodge and by every lover of Masonry in this country. He felt
sure that that history would not be tarnished by this generation or
succeeding generations, but that they would add to its lustre as well
as Masonry in Scotland, and that, when the next century came to be
celebrated, it would be in as flourshing a condition as at present.
(Applause.) "
The toast was responded to with full' Masonic honours. An ode
was recited commemorative of the occasion, composed by the Poet-
Laureate of the Lodge, Brother Captain L. Archer. The names of
many of the eminent Members of the Lodge were skilfully introduced)
and the poem was well received.
The Chairman suitably responded to the toast of the evening.
Music, vocal and instrumental, varied and enlivened the evening's
enjoyment, A souvenir of the Bi-Centenary Celebration was circulated
\
"pernors of jbt. Cflatt of JRowlfin.
233
amongst the company. It contained a sketch of the history of the
Lodge, with a facsimile of the Minute in the Books of the Mother
Lodge, Kilwinning, dated 20th December 1677, referring to the
institution of this Lodge. The illuminated printing is not the
least remarkable feature of the memorial. There is also a selected
list of names from the roll of members of the Lodge, arranged under
the various professions. Under " Law," there are such names as the
Hon. Henry Erskine and Lord Brougham ; " Medicine," James
Gregory, M.D. ; " Army," General Sir Ralph Abercrombie and the
Hon. Colonel William Napier ; " Literature," Bruce the Abyssinian
Traveller, James Boswell of Auchinleck ; Robert Burns, and James
Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, who both held the office of Poet-Laureate
of the Lodge. The company honoured in silence the " Memory of
St. Clair of Rosslyn," who occupied the chair of the Lodge in his day,
and was the first Grand Master of Scotland. The evening's festivity
then terminated, the Lodge being closed in due form.
30
APPENDIX.
SOME OF THE RECORDS, PAINTINGS, AND OBJECTS OF
INTEREST AT PRESENT IN POSSESSION OF THE LODGE.
The Minutes of Canongate Kilwinning Lodge. Six Volumes, dating from 13th February
I73S-
Black-Letter (Breeches) Bible, 1589. Presented by Brother, John Campbell {vide
Minute, 14th November 1735).
Roll of Members. Two Volumes — alphabetical — made up to 1857.
Black-Letter Folio Bible, 1642 (mde Minute, 3rd August 1737).
Patent or Confirmation op Authority (granted 20th December 1677 by the Mother
Lodge at Kilwinning), dated 24th June 1736.
"Deed of Election " of Brother William St. Clair of Rosslyn as Grand Master, and of
other Office-bearers of Grand Lodge, dated the xxxth day of November
MDCCXXXVI. Presented by Brother W. Edmonstoune Aytoun {vii/e Minute, 15th
January 1844).
Roll of Members, and the original Code of Bye-laws of the Lodge Vernon Kilwinning.
The name of " Lodge Vernon Kilwinning " was adopted in honour of Admiral
Vernon, celebrated for his successful expedition against the Spaniards in 1739.
The designation of the Lodge was changed to that of " St. Giles," which ultimately
united with the Canongate ^Kil winning {vide Minute, 3rd Nov. 1779).
"The Book of Laws and Regulations of the Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in
Scotland entitled Vernon Kilwinning, Anno Mundi 5841."
Letter from Lord John Russell, dated 14th August 1837, conveying thanks for the
loyal and dutiful address from Canongate Kilwinning on the occasion of Her
Majesty's Accession to the Throne. '
" The Constitutions of the Antient and Honourable Fraternity of Free and Accepted
Masons." Printed at the Black Swan in Pater-noster Row, MDCCLVI.
Vulgar year of Masonry 5756.
Other Records of Interest.
|L,ppenlit3E. 235
Full-Length Portrait of M.W.G.M. William St. Clair of Rosslyn. The Artist is
believed to have been Allan Ramsay, son of the Poet, who became a Mason in
1736 (vide " Laurie's History of Freemasonry," p. 99, note).
Portraits in Oil of Bailie Robert Jack and Mrs. Jack. Presented by their great -grand-
nephew, Brother David Greig, in 1880, with the stipulation that, if accepted, they
must not be separated. On the back of Bailie Jack's portrait there is the follow-
ing statement written : —
" Portrait of Mr. Robert Jack in his robes as a Magistrate of the
Canongate of Edinburgh. He was the proprietor of the most part of Jack's
Closes in the Canongate, to which his nephews, Mr. James Gibson,
Surgeon, and Captain Horsburgh succeeded about the year 1754.''
Vide Minute, 24th June 1880
Portrait of Alexander M'Neill, Advocate. R.W.M. 1830—38. Presented by Prince
Czartoryski, Charles Samoski (the artist), and other Polish Patriots, admitted
Members of the Lodge 1835 (vide Minutes).
Portrait of Alexander Lambe Robertson, W.S. R.W.M. 1819 — 30, and i860 — 61.
Painted by Brother Stewart Watson.
PORTRAlTofSamuelSometvilleof Ampherlaw, M.D. R.W.M. 1843. Painted by Brother
' Stewart Watson.
Portrait of William Nathaniel Fraser of Tornaveen. R.W.M. 1853 — 54- 55, and
1865—66. Painted by Brother Stewart Watson.
Lithograph. Inauguration of Robert Burns as Poet-Laureate of the Lodge — ist March
1787— with Key.
Lithograph. Laying Foundation-Stone of Edinburgh University by Lord Francis Napier
(whose portrait appears in the Inauguration picture). M.W.G.M. 1788 — 89.
Lithograph. The Right Hon. the Earl of Rosslyn. M.W.G.M. 1870— 73. Presented
by the Countess of Rosslyn, 1883.
Photograph. James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd. Poet-Laureate of Canongate Kilwin-
ning, 1835.
Photograph. Meeting of James Boswell of Auchinleck (in 1773, when R.W.M. of
Canongate Kilwinning) and Dr. Samuel Johnson with Flora Macdonald. Vide
Boswell's Tour to the Hebrides.
Pewter Inkstand, having Masonic Emblems engraved on Lid, also the inscription
"Cannongate Lodge, 573S-"
236 Sljc €anongatt ^ilrainning |;.obge, fio. 2.
Fine China Punch Bowl, profusely illustrated with Masonic Emblems, and dated 1685.
Fine China Punch Jug, similarly illustrated. Both presented, 1884—6, by Brother J. C.
Merry, P.M., Lodge Arboretum, Derby. The Jug bears on the outside the first
verse of the Apprentice Anthem and the following lines : —
" Swiftly see each moment flies, •
See and learn be timely wise,
Every nioment shortens day.
Every pulse beats life away.
Thus thy every heaving breath
Waft thee on to certain death. ^
Seize the moments as they fly ;
Know to live and learn to die. "
Snuff Mull, silver mounted. Presented by Brother James Anderson, 1828.
Masonic Drinking Horn, mounted in silver and elaborately carved with Masonic devices,
also with the fojlowing lines : —
" Some praise the glasses of the rich,
Their liquors rare and fine ;
The humble horn, I'll sing "its praise
When filled with ale or wine. "
Antique Mallet, in use prior to^i73S, — was dug up in the ruins of Rosslyn Chapel.
Mallet, formed from portion of one of the cedars at Lebanon. "From Bro. John
Tweedie, Royal Navy, to his Mother Lodge, Canongate Kilwinning No. 2, as a
relic of Cedar from the Mountains of Lebanon. August 1863."
"So Hiram gave Solomon cedar trees and jw trees according to all his desire." — l Kings,
Sth chapter, loth verse.
The Organ built by Schnetzler of London (wVs Minutes 18th September 1754; 6th July
1757 ; and 3rd August 1757).
Other Paintings and Objects of Interest, also Records, &c., belonging to The Lodge,
The Royal Arch Chapter, No, 56, and The Knight Templars.
lippenbiaE.
237
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF A FEW SELECTED
FROM THE ROLL OF MEMBERS.
Affiliates indicated by an Asterisk.
Alison, Andrew, Bailie of Edinburgh. R.W.M. 1766; S.G.W.
1764 ; S.G.M. 1771
Alexander, William, Lord Provost of Edinburgh,
Adams, Robert, Architect, 1 Designers of many magnificent build
Adams, James, Architect, J" ings in the United Kingdom,
Abercrombie, Ralph, Younger of Tullibodie — General Sir Ralph
Abercrombie — Lord Abercrombie of Aboul<ir,
Aberdour, Right Hon. Sholto Charles, Lord. M.W.G.M. of
Scotland 1755 ^"<J 1756. and of England 1757,
Adair, Dr. Thomas,
Alison, James, S.G.M.,
Adam, Alexander, LL.D., Rector of the High School,
Anderson, Samuel, of St. Germain, Banker,
Arnot, Hugo, Author of " History of Edinburgh,"
Adair, James, Makethick, Lichfield
Ancrum, Right Hon. William, Earl of, afterw-irds 6th Marquis of
Lothian. M.W.G.M. of Scotland 1794,
Aytoun, John, of Inchdairnie,
Arkly, Patrick, of Dunninald, Forfarshire
Aytoun, William Edmonstoune, Professor of Literature and Belles
Lettres, Author of "Lays of the Scottish Cavaliers," etc.
R.W.M. 1839
Anstrutiier, Sir William Wyndham Carmichael, Bart.,
Brown, John, Bailie. J.G.W. 1749,
Baillie, Sir William, of Lamington. First S.G.W. 1736, .
Baillie, William, Factor to "The Laird of Lamington," .
Buchanan, Francis, of Arnprior,
Bethune, David, Younger of Kilconquhar, Esq., .
Brymbr, Captain David, of Edrom
Barclay, James, Teacher of Humanity, ....
BoswELL, Dr. John, Censor of the Royal College of Surgeons,
Edinburgh. S.G.W
ED NAMES
3.
Initiated.
June
17.
1752
August
21,
1752
November
29,
1752
May
25.
I7S3
November
14.
I7SS
)i
17.
1767
19.
1770
December
5.
1771
,,
28,
1778
»f
28,
1778
June
24>
1778
November
30.
1792
January
17.
1819
December
16,
183s
March
9.
1836
December
27,
1839
„
3.
•735
October
6,
1736
»»
28,
1737
June
13.
1738
December
S.
1740
April
7.
1 741
December
2,
1741
September 6, 1742
y£^efCj ^ff^^
238 §ri)c fflanongate |&ilt)i3tmitnfl IDobge, ^0. 2.
' Initiated.
Beatson, Thomas, of Kilrie, Esq March 4, 1752
Blair, Dr. Hugh, Lecturer on Rhetoric and Belles Lettres 4, 1752
Bruce, James, Younger of Kinnaird — the Abyssinian Traveller, . August 1, I7S3
Blair, Sir James Hunter. Gra:nd Treasurer November 14,1755
Burnet, James, of Monboddo, Esq., Advocate — Lord Monboddo, ,, 24, 1757
BoswELL, Jambs, Younger of Auchinleck — the Biographer of Dr.
Johnson. R.W.M. 1773 ; S.G.W. 1773 ; D.G.M. 1777, . August 14, 1759
Brodie, William ("Deacon" Brodie), January 8,1763
*Brown, Dr. John, Founder of the "Browrionian System of
Medicine," , . . . . . November' 4, 1767
Binning, Lord, afterwards 17th Earl of Haddington, . . . December 5,1768
Balfour, John, of Balbirnie March 16,1770
Balcarres, AlexaNTOer, 6th Earl of. M.W.G.M November 20,1775
BUEGO, John, Engraver of Naesmyth's Portrait of Burns, . . December 4,1783
Bairp, Captain, afterwards Sir David, K.C.B., ; . . . ,, 2, 1784
Bartlet, Captain F., of Milton House, Canongate, . . . February 1,1787
*BuRNS, Robert. Poet-Laureate 1787—96, . . . . . ,, i, 1787
Brougham, James, Advocate, brother of Lord Brougham, . ■. December 10,1797
*Brougham, Henry, Advocate-^Lord Brougham— Lord High
Chancellor of England June 24, 1800
Bell, John, Surgeon, ,, 24, 1816
Bell, Henry Glassford, ........ December 6, 1826
Boyd, John, Publisher January 24, 1828
Blackwood, Robert, Publisher, February 6, 1835
*BuRNES, James, M.D., LL.D., F.R.S., etc., . . ' . . April 30, 1835
Blair, James, of Glenfoot. R.W.M. 1841 ; J.G.D. 1841, . . March 9, 1836
Bennett, John Hughes, M.D., Professoj of the Institutes of Medi-
cine November 23, 1836
*Baillie, Sir William, of Polkemmet. J.G.D ,, 27,1844
Blackwood, John February iS, 1846
Blackwood, James ,, 23, 1848
Beattie, Alexander, Architect April 12, 1848
Blackie, George Stuart, M.D., March 25, 1857
Congalton, William, "of that Ilk,'' . . ■. . . . December 15, 1736
CoLHOUN, James, Lord Provost of Edinburgh 1738, . . . October 25,1737
Cauvin, Louis, French Teacher, December 4, 1752
Coutts, James, Banker (of Coutts & Co., London), . . . April 24, 1754
Cairnie, Dr. John. D.M., Treasurer, and S.W., . . ' . May 7, 1755
Cardonell, Mansfield, Commissioner of H.M. Customs, . . October 6,1756.
CocKBURN, George, Advocate, ; . July 6, 1757
Campbell, Ilay, Advocate, Lord President of the Court of Session, November l, 1758
Cameron, Evan, Younger of Fassifern, „ 27,1759
^ppenbtaE. 239
Initiated.
CuLLEN, William, son to Dr. CuUen November 30, 1763
Cochran, Charles, son to the Earl of Dundonald, . . . June 26,1764
Callender, Major James, of Craigforth, January 30,1765
Cochran, John, son to the Earl of Dundonald, .' . . . March 31,1767
Campbell, Cathcart, of Dunloshen May 3, 1770
Campbell, Archibald, of Springfield January 7> '773
Cranston, Hon. George, Ensign, December 2, 1778
Cauvin, Louis (Burns' French Teacher) ,, 2, 1778
Cullen, William, of Parkhead February 3,1779
*Charteris, Francis, Younger of Amisfield — Lord Elcho.
M.W.G.M March 3, 1779
Cochran, Hon. George August 1, 1781
♦Campbell, William, of Fairfield, December 7,1786
Carnegie, Sir David June 24, 1791
Crichton, Dr. William A., Physician to the Grand Duke Nicholas, December 19, 1816
Constable, Thomas, Publisher, March 13, 1835
Cowan, James, Moray House, Lord Provost, afterwards M.P., . ,, 13, 1835
CORMACK, Sir John Rose, M.D., Paris November 30,1835
*Czartoryski, Prince, of Poland, December 11,1835
Cunningham, John, of Newton, M.irch 18, 1846
Carr, Richard, 90th Regiment Stirlingshire Militia, . . . November 14, 1855
♦Douglas, Dr. John. First S.G.M. 1737—52; and R.W.M.
1737— SO, August 4, 1736
Donaldson, William, of Kinnardie, September 1,1736
Dalrymple, Hew— Lord Drummore, one of the Lords of Session, . January 3, 1737
Dalrymple, David, of Westhall — Lord Wtsthall. M.W.G.M., . October 7,1747
Drummond, Doctor Thomas, February 3, 1748
DONALDSONJ Alexander, Publisher June 23, 1752
Drummond, Colin, M.D., November 28, 1752
*Drummond, George, Lord Provost. M.W.G.M. and R.W.M.
of Canongate Kilwinning, December 27,1752
Dunbar, Sir William, Bart., of Hempriggs November 20,1754
*DlCK, Sir Alexander, Bart., of Priestfield (from the Lodge at
Rome) , 29, 1756
•Drummond, Alexander, late H.M. Consul at Aleppo (brother of
George Drummond) June 24, 1760
Dalhousie, George, 8th Earl of. M.W.G.M., .... November 24, 1766
Drummond, Lord Thomas July 1, 1767
Don, Alexander, son of Sir Alex. Don Newton, Bart., . . April 5, 1770
Dalziell, Lord Richard November 27, 1770
Duncan, Dr. Andrew, Founder of the Edinburgh Dispensary, . December 27,1774
DuNGLASS, Lord, February i, 1776
24°
Si:i)e (Sl^nongate l^tltotnntng l^obge, fio. 2.
Initiated.
Dashkov, His Highness Paul, Prince of, St. Petersburg, . . May 12, 1^79
Dunbar, Sir George, Bart., of Hempriggs, December 2,1784
DouNE, Lord Viscount Francis, afterwards gth Earl of Moray.
M.W.G.M., . , November 30, 1792
Dalhousie, George, gth Earl of. M.W.G.M., .... ,,23, 1802
Drummond, Right Hon. Sir William, Bart., Perthshire, . . June 24, 1816
Drybrough, Thomas, Councillor. R.W.M. 1856; J.G.D. 1858, . December 6, 1843
, Don, Sir William, Bart ' . . . . July 8,1856
Erskine, The Hon. Henry, Dean of Faculty. R.W.M. 1780;
J.G.W. 1773, . .■ . . . . . . . June 24, 1780
*Errol, Right Hon. 14th Earl of, December 7, 1786
*Errol, Right Hon. 15th Earl of, November 29, 1803
Elliot, Sir Walter, of Wolflee, H.E.I. C.S February 10,1836
Frazer, George. R.W.M. 1735; S.G.M. 1752; D.G.M. 1755—61,
Fergus, John, Architect of the Royal Exchange, .
*FoRBES, James, Master of Forbes. M.W.G.M.,.
Frazer, William, of Foord, C.S., ....
Frazer, Hon. Hugh, of Lovat; Esq., ....
Forbes, Sir William, of Pitsligo, Bart. M.W.G.M., .
Eraser, Simon, Advocate. R.W.M. 1776; S.G.M. 1777,
Eraser, Hugh, of Nockie
Fraser, Hon. Alexander, Master of Salton,
Farquharson, Dr. William. R.W.M. 1793; J.G.W. 1781,
Fergusson, Alexander, of Craigdarroch, Hero of Burns' "Song
of the Whistle." R.W.M. 1784; S.G.W. 1783, .
Fergusson, Cutler, Younger of Craigdarroch,
FouLis, Sir James, Bart
Forbes, William, Younger of Echt
Fergusson, William, Surgeon, F.R.C.S. — Sir William Fergusson
Professor of Surgery in University College, London, 1836
Surgeon in Ordinary to H.R.H. Prince Albert, 1849
*Fitzclarence, Lord Frederick. M.W.G.M., .
*Fraser, William Nathaniel, of Tornaveen. R.W.M. 1853 — 65,
Prior to 1735
November i, 1752
December 4, 1754
November 19, 1756
21, 1757
16, 1759
27, 1759
March 2, 1775
April 2, 1778
June 24, 1780
December 27, 1783
June I, 1787
December 1, 1794
January 24, 1825
February 4, 1830
January 19, 1842
December 12, 1849
Gilsland, James, Goldsmith (to virhom Sir Henry Raeburn was
apprentice when aged 16 years), . . . . ' . . August 4, 1752
Gordon, CharlesHamilton, Advocate. M.W.G.M., . . November 29, 1752
Graham, William, of Airth August 1, 1753
Guthrie, John, Younger of Guthrie, Esq Jahuary 10, 1759
Gentle, James, Brewer in Canongate (Bailie of Edinburgh), . October 4, 1760
Grant, Leslie Peter, of Balqahain, ...... ,, 29, 1762
Iippmbix. 241
Iniliated.
Gordon, Hon. Alexander, 3rd son of William and Earl of
Aljerdeen. D.G.M., December 4, 1765
Gravie, Hon. Charles November 17, 1767
Gordon, The Hon. William, of Kenmuir December 7, 1786
Gregory, James, M.D., Professor of the Practice of Physic,. . November 30, 1789
GuNN, William Marshall, High School ,, 15, 1825
Grant, John Charles, H.E.I. C.S j'anuary 11, 1826
Grant, Robert, of Kincorth February 4, 1836
*Gilfillan, Robert, Grand Bard, March 8, 1837
*Glenlyon, Right Hon. George Augustus Frederick Joh.n,
Lord, afterwards 6th Duke of Athole. .M.W.G.M., . . May 6, 1843
Hay, Andrew, of Mugdrum. R.W.M., July 7, 1736
Haliburton, James, of Pitcurr ,, 7, 1736
Hay, Alexander, of Drumelzier, December 18, 1736
Hay, John, of Belton „ 18, 1736
Hay, John, of Balbethan, September 21, 1737
Home, Sir John, of Renton, Bart., July 6, 1757
Hamilton, John, brother to Wishaw, November 23, 175.S
Hamilton, Robert, of Wishaw, Esq ,,26, 1761
Hay, Charles, Advocate — Lord Newton, . • . • ,, S, 1766
Hamilton, Dr. James, sen., .... ... October 12, 1774
Hay, Dr. Thomas. R.W.M. 1781 ; J.G.W. 17S3 ; S.G.M.
1782—98 „ 12, 1774
Haddo, Right Hon. George, Lord. M.W.G.M., . . . January i, 1778
Hay, John, Younger of Haystoun, November 30, 1778
Hope, Charles, Advocate — The Hon. Charles Hope of Granton,
Lord Justice-Clerk March 4, 1784
Hamilton, Captain, of Wishaw, „ 2, 1786
Hamilton, Dr. James, jun., January 6, 1789
Hepburn, Robert, Younger of Clerkington, .... March 4, 1790
Honeyman, Patrick, of Armadale, December 10, 1797
Hay, Samuel Sinclair, H.E.LC.S „ 16,1798
Hogg, James, of Altrive Lake, Yarrow — " The Ettrick Shepln:rd " ;
Poet-Laureate, • May 7, 1835
HORNE, James, jun., of Langwell November 17, 1841
Hunter, James, Captain 42nd Highlanders, .... May 16, 1843
Henderson, John Gray, of Abbotsrule, Roxburghshire, . . November 15, 1843
Henderson, William Scott, Do. Do. . . . March 13, 1844
Hunter, John, Drum House, Liberton November 19, 1845
Hunter, Evan Allan, Liberton December 10, 1845
Hay, John D. Buchanan, Younger of Morton „ 23, 1846
Haldane, David Rutherford, M.D June i, 1848
31
242 Slje ca^anongate l^tltomtttng %o'iSQt, fio. 2.
t I - Initiated.
Hunter, Andrew, Captain 2Sth Bengal N. I., .... February 24,1849
Hunter, James Adam, M.D., Edinburgh, April 18, 1849
HORNE, Thomas E. O., W.S.,^ . January ' 2, 1850
Hay, James, St. Kitts, West Indies, ...... December 7, 1853
Hay, John Crosslanc, Col. 92nd Highlanders January 9, 1856
Hughes, Gordon, Do. ....,, 9, 1852
*Hart, Albert Frederick, Lieut. R.N., March 25, 1858
JARDINE, Sir Henry, Advocate. R.W.M December 4, 1782
Jardine, Henry, Advocate. R.W.M., ..... „ 16, 1836
Jarvis, Sir Henry MerediT^h Louis White, Bart November 30, 1837
Kenmure, Right Hon. John, Viscount,' December 17, 1743
Ker, Right Hon. Lord Robert, '. . March ^ 29, ,1765
KiNLOCH, Francis, of Gilmerton December 13, 1769'
Kincaid, Alexander, Lord Provost ,, 5, 1771
Kerr, William Scott, of Chatto, ■ March 23,1836
KiNLOCH, Colonel, of Kilrie . . . May 6, 1843
Kirkwall, Right Hon. Lord Viscount, 92nd Highlanders, . . December 17, 1845
Kennedy, Lord Gilbert, ' . . February 21, 1849
Kennedy, Lord Nig^l January 30, 1850
Lumsdaine, John, of Stravithy. R.W.M. 1754; S.G.W. 1754, . ,, 3,' i75o
Lee, John, Comedian May 7, 1755
* Leven, Right Hon. David, 6th Earl of. M.W.G.M March 2,1757
LiND, Dr. James, of Gorgie. R.W.M. 1769; S.G.W. 1770,. . August 2, 1758
Love, James, Comedian, March 11, 1760
Leith, Sir George, November n, 1784
LESLIE,' Sir John, March 2, 1786
Lockhart, Alexander M 'Donald, of Cam wath January 26, 1826
Lockhart, John Gibson. The Biographer of Scott, . . . ,, 26, 1826
Lauder, Sir Frederick Dick, Lord Provost February 6, 1835
Lockhart, Alexander Gibson, 78th Highlanders, . . . January 8, 1840
Lockhart, Walteji Elliot, Madras Civil Service, . . . August 14, 1840
Lumsden, Henry, Pitcaple Castle . January 13, 1847
Lee, Dr. Robert, Edinburgh, December 12,, 1849
*Loughborough, Francis Robert, Lord, 4th Earl of Rosslyn.
D.M. CanongateKilwiniiing 1853; M.W.G.M. 1873, . . August 1.1853
MONIGOMERIE, WiLLlAM. First R.W.M. of Leith Kilwinning
Lodge, constituted by Canongate Kilwinning 1736, '. . February 27, 1735
Murray, Hugh, of Kynnymound, Prior to 1 73s
Iippendtx.
243
Initiated.
Montgomery, Robert, City Treasurer June 13,
Murray, John, Druggist. J.G.W. 1743 ,, 24,
Murray, John, of Broughton, Secretary to Prince Charles Stewart, December 27,
Murray, Patrick, of Cherrytrees, Advocate, .... November 24,
*M'Leod, Norman, of M'Leod, Esq., of Inverness Lodge, . . February 2,
Murray, Hon. William, of Lord Effingham Howard's Regiment, August 8,
Murray, Alexander, Younger of Murrayfield, Advocate.— Lord
Henderland,
Mowbray, William, of Duckburn, W.S
M'DoNNELL, Alexander, of Glengarry, Esq
M'Leod, Captain, Younger of M'Leod,
M'Donald, John, of Dallness, Esq
Munro, Dr. Alexander, jun.. Professor of Anatomy, .
M'Lean, Sir Allan, Bart.,
M'DowALL, Archibald, Broadcloth Merchant
M'DowALL, Captain John, of Woolmet,
M'DoNNELL, Duncan, of Glengarry,
Maconochie, Allan — ist Lord Meadowbank, ....
More, Charles, of the Royal Bank. D.M.,
Murray, Sir Alexander, of Balmanno, Bart
Murray, Alexander, Younger of Abercairney
Murray, Sir James, Bart., of Hillhead,
M'Lean, Rev. Archibald, Minister of Rothesay, ....
Maxwell, Sir William, of Monreith, Bart.,
Mackenzie, Henry — "The Man of Feeling," ....
Millar, John, Advocate — The Historian
Moir, Robert. R.W.M. 1795 ; J.G.W. 1767,
Maitland, R. A.,
Morton, Right Hon. George, 17th Earl of. M.W.G.M., .
M'Lachlan, Robert, Advocate,
M'DONNELL, Lieut. Anthony, of Lochgarry
Mausay, Captain Nicholas, Aide-de-Camp to General Kutusoff, .
M'RiTCHiE, Thomas Elder, of Craigton and Dunork, W.S.,
Mackenzie, Kenneth, Younger of Hilton, W.S.,
M'Lachlan, Duncan, of Kinlochaline,
Marshall, Archibald
Mackenzie, William, of Greenyard,
Mackenzie, William (son of Henry Mackenzie),
Muir, George — "A Poet," ....
Maxwell, George Walter, ofCarruchan, Esq.,
Macneill, Alexander, Advocate. R.W.M June
Murray, Hon. James
Moir, David Macbeth, M.D. (Delta), .
November
December
April
December
November
August
March
December
January
July
December
February
»»
April
February
November
July
December
March
February
March
November
December
June
December
March
»»
November
tt
January
November
March
February
16.
6,
3.
9.
26,
10,
13.
II.
30.
9.
2,
8.
7,
4.
6.
29.
4.
2,
2,
I.
1,
30.
14.
24.
19,
S>
4.
10,
10,
6,
13.
6,
5.
24.
24.
24,
1738
1738
1738
I7S7
1758
I7S8
1758
1756
1759
1760
1761
1762
1764
1764
176s
176s
1767
1769
1771
1 771
1772
1775
1781
1784
1786
1787
1787
1789
1814
1816
1816
1818
1819
1819
1819
1820
1822
1823
1824
1824
1829
1829
244 ^l)c ^anongate ^tltoinntng $obge, ;^o. 2.
Initiated.
M'Kay, Robert, Artist, March l8, 183S
Mackenzie, William Forbes, of Portmore — ".Forbes Mackenzie," ,, 8, 1837
Murray, James Wolfe, of Cringletie ,, 11, 1840
' MAlTLANt), Ferguson George, Younger of Hermand, . . . June 15, 1840
Maconochie, Henry Dundas, of Meadowbank House, . . November 4, 1840
Maclean, Hector Frederick, W.S., of Hill Street, . . . December 8, 1841
M'liEAY, Kenneth, R.S.A., . February 10, 1843
Maitland, Alexander G. C, Bannockburn House, Stirling, . Ofctober 25, 1843
*MiLLER, Sir William, of Glenlee, Bart., . . . . '. December 10, 1845
Menzies, James Gilbert, 42nd Royal Highlanders, . . . March 10, 1847
Miller, Robert, Captain Scots Greys, . .....,; 31, 1847
M'DowELL, James, of Logan, Lieut. -Colonel, .... August 4, 1848
Mowbray, Richard, of Hartwood, December 12, 1849
Macdougall, Alexander, 33 Royal T^rr^ce ,,26, 1849
MACKINNON, William Alexander, of Skye May 7, 1851
Menzies, James Alexander, of Pitnacra, March 7, 1855
M'Culloch, John M., Banker, January 14, 1857
Nicolson, Sir William, March 3, 1736
Nisbet, William, of Dirleton. M.W.G.M 1 . December 27, 1744
Napier, The Hon. William, Col. of the Scots Greys, 6th Lord
Napier, December 7, 1769
Napier, Francis, 7th Lord. M.W.G.M., March 2, 1775
Naesmyth, Alexander, Artist, . ' February S, 1777
Norton, The Hon. Fletcher, Baron Norton, of the Exchequer, . „ i, 1787
Naesmyth, Charles James, 14 Windsor Street, .... October 7, 184S
Napier, Alexander John, June 22, 1847
Naesmyth, John, George Street, July 9, 1850
Oswald, Roger, of Fingalton, . . . . . . . P'ebruary 22,1737
*Oughton, Lieut.-Col. Jas. A. M.W.G.M December 4, i7S4
Oswald, James Townsend, Dunnikier, February 3, 1766
Oliphant, Stuart, Younger of Rossie June 24, 1789
Ogilvy, Charles, of Seafield, Zetla»id, April 5, 1854
Porter, Rev. Francis, D.D., Edinburgh January 9, I7S3
Percy, Right Hon. Lord Algernon, November 28,1767
Paul, His Highness, Prince of Dashkov, May 13) '779
Pringle, Jambs, of, Stichell, December 13,1843
Pike, Francis, Lieut. g2nd Highlanders, January 9, 1856
Ross, James (Brother to Ross of Inverchasely), .... May 6,1752
Robertson, Patrick, Goldsmith and Jeweller, . . . . „ 25,1752
|lppenJii3E, 245
Initiated.
Rae, Sir David, of Eskgrove, Bart., Advocate — Lord Eskgrove, . November 13, i7S3
Ramsay, Peter, Landlord of the "White Horse Inn," ... ,, 2,1755
Ross, David, of Inverchasely, Advocate. R.W.M. 1757 ; S.G.W.
1758 December 3, 1755
Rutherford, Dr. John (Uncle of Sir Walter Scott), . . . November 17,1767
Ramsay, John, of Banff, December 15,1769
Ross, Monro, of Pilcainy, February 4, 1773
*Ramsay, Hon. Henry, at Lady Dalhousie's, .... December 3, 1801
Richardson, Mark, M.D November 12, 1823
Rutherford, Walter, H.E.LC.S., 28th B.N. I., . . . January 24, 1835
Ramsay, Right Hon. James Andrew, Lord, afterwards loth Earl
and 1st Marquis of Dalhousie. M.W.G.M.,. . . . February 6,1835
Rhind, David, Architect, November 28, 1835
Roberts, Francis, 92nd Highlanders December 26, 1855
St. Clair, William, of Rosslyn. First M.W.C.M., . . . May 18,1736
Scott, Sir John, of Ancrum, Bart., December 2,1736
Stewart, John (eldest son to I^rovost Archibald Stewart), . . ,, 2, 1747
Spens, Nathaniel, F.R.C.P.E. R.W.M. 1778; S.G.M. 1776—82;
D.G.M. 1782—86 June 5, 1751
Stewart, Captain James, of Lord Drumlanrig's Regiment, . February 5, 1752
Stewart, Dr. Mathew, Professor of Mathematics, . . . June 3. '752
Scott, Robert, of Skelf hill November 30,1752
StuArt, Dr. Gilbert (father of Gilbert Stuart, the Historian), . March 14,1753
Simpson, Rev. Peter, Minister of the Gospel at Fala, . . . June 6,1753
Scott, John, of Craigintinnie November 14,1755
Stuart, James, Lord Provost of Edinburgh. M.W.G.M., . . ' ,, 14,1755
Stuart, John, of Ballochleish December 3, i755
Steuart, Walter, of Steuarthall, Advocate. R.W.M. 175S ;
S.G.W. 1760, July 4, 1757
St. Clair, Sir John, of Stevenson January 5, i757
Simpson, Andrew, of Viewfield, December 1,1760
Sinclair, George, of Ulbster June 25,1764
Stoddart, William, Lord Provost November 16, 1764
Stewart, David, Lord Provost December 27, 1765
Spence, Dr. David, Edinburgh, November 29, 1770
Sinclair, Sir John, Bart., of Ulbster February 7. 1771
Sinclair, Robert, of Scotscalder, „ 6,1772
Stewart, Dugald, Professor of Moral Philosophy, . . . December 4, 1775
Stewart, Henry, of AUanton, January 2,1777
Spankie, George, Bailie, Treasurer of the Lodge, .... December 2, 1778
Swinton, Mr., Younger of Swinton, „ 28,1778
ScoiT, Captain John, of Maleny, May 3,1780
246
Srije eiationgate ^ilroinntng S^obfle, ^0. 2.
Spens, Nathaniel, of the Royal Navy, ....
*Stewart, John, of AUanbank,
Shaw, D., of the Boar Club, ,
Stirling, Patrick, of Kippendavie, ....
Sublankoff, Nicholas, Major-General " in the Russian
Stewart, George, of Murthly Castle, Perthshire, .
Sharpe, Charles Kirkpatrick, Younger of Hoddam,
Sprott, Mark, of Gurnlcirk, Advocate, ....
Sinclair, Hon. George, Royal Navy, . . i .
S;rEWART, Charles, H.E.I. C.S.,
Sinclair, Lieut. Archibald (son of Sir John Sinclair), .
*Stewart, Shaw William, of Lochnagar, .
Surenne, John T., Professor of Music,
Stewart, Charles Erskine, H.E.I.C
Stuart, Lord Dudley Coutts, M.P.,
Spied, James, of Aldovie^
Stewart, W. M., of Glenmorriston,
Scott, Captain Walter, H.E.I.C. S.,
Smyth, Sir James Robert Carmichael, Bart.,
SOMERVILLE,, Samuel, of Ampherlaw,,M.D.,
Stewart, Alexander James, W.S
*SuiRDALE, Viscount, 4th Earl of Donoughmore, .
SOMERVILLE, \yii.LiAM,' Milton House, Canongate,
, Scott, Walter Scott Lockhart, Lieut. i6'th Lancers,
Sinclair, The Hon. Alexander Eric George, .
Small, James, of Dirnanean,
*Strathmore, Thomas Bowes Lyon, 12th Earl of. R.W,
Canongate Kilwinning 1864,
Service,
M. of
Initiated.
February
2,
1784
December
2,
1784
February
3>
1791
March
3,
1802
November
2.-5.
1802
June
24,
1816
October
.-Ji.
i8i6
January
7,
1818
39
7.
1819
i) ■
6,
1820
March
3.
1825
April
3.
1828
January
9.
1833
DeSember
9.
183s
»
II.
183s
)y
16,
183s
February
10,
1836
April
6,
1836
March
II,
1840
October
14.
1840
December
27,
1842
January
9.
1846
>>
27.
1847
February
9.
1848
)>
12,
1851
January
14,
1857
June
24, 1863
Trotter, Thomas, Merchant,
Traill, George, Surgeon to Colonel Scott, Commander-in-Chief in
the East Indies; . . . '
Tytler, James, W.S , .
Torphichen, James Sandilands, gth Lord. R.W.M. 1787;
D.G.M. 1786—87 . , .
Thomson, George, Teacher of Music
TuRNBULL, W. B. D. D., Advocate, . . . , .
Trotter, R., of Hapland, Advocate,
Tweedie, Captain John, R.N. , . .• . .' .
Thomson, Lockhart, Edinburgh
Prior to 1 735
November 21, 1732
June \ 24, 177 1
March 2, 1786
January 4, 1798
November 21, 1833
February 17^ 1836
March 3, 1847
December 12, 1849
Vesey, George H., Royal Artillery January 16, 1850
^ppmbii. 247
Initiated.
WiGHTMAN, John, of Maulsley, W.S May 25,1752
WiGHTON, Earl of— Charles Ross Fleming, . . . . July 13, 1752
Walker, John, Bailie of Edinburgh August i> i753
Wood, Alexander, Surgeon November $, 1754
^'Wedderburn, Alexander, Advocate — Lord Loughborough, ist
Earl of Rosslyn, Lord High Chancellor of England, . . December 3,1755
Warrender, GfiORGE, jun., of Bruntsfield, November i, 1763
Whitefoord, Sir John, Bart February 12, 1765
Wood, Andrew, Surgeon, April 7, 1769
*Walker, Sir Patrick, of Coates June 24,1816
Williams, Hugh William, Landscape Painter, .... August 27, 1822
Wilson, Adam, Writer June 24, 1824
Watson, William Stewart, Portrait Painter March 6, 1828
Wilson, John, Professor of Moral Philosophy — Christopher North, February 2, 1830
Watkins, Captain John, H.E.I. C.S., March 2,1831
Watkins, Major James, H.E.LC.S February 6,1835
Wilson, Alexander, H.E.LC.S. April 4, 1839
Wauchope, Andrew, of Niddry December 13,1843
Wauchope, Sir John Don, of Edmonstone, Bart., ... ,, 13,1848
Wyndham, Robert Henry, Theatre Royal, March 14, 1849
*Walpole, Hon. Henry (of St. David's Lodge), . . . November 15,1849
Winchester, James W., Surgeon, Bombay Army, . January 5, 1853
Watt, James, of Logie House, Dundee, , 12,1853
Winchester, Charles Alexander, Jt.D., H.M. Diplomatic
Service, November 23, 1853
Yair, Rev. James, Cawnpore, India July i, 1752
*YouNG, Colonel John. D.G.M December 3, 1755
Young, Adam, Surgeon, January 2H, 1825
Zaba, Napoleon Felix, from Poland, December 27, 1834
Zamoyski, Count Ladislas, from Poland ,, 11,1835
2'48
^I)e ^anongate ^tltntnntng %o\)^t, fLo. 2.
Poem composed and read by Brother Andrew Stevenson, M.A.,
Poet- Laureate, at the Meeting held on ist March 1887, to celebrate
the Centenary of the Inauguration of Robert Burns as Poet-
Laureate of the Lodge : —
THE LAUREATE WREATH.
A hundred yedrs to-night,
(Let the spot be sacred ground)
Your Poet stood 'mid the Sons of Light,
His brow with the laurel crowned ;
And the shout of loud ajcclaim
That round your banners curled,
Hath pealed afar till that son of fame
Is the Laureate of the world ;
Triumphant over time,
Beyond its hopes and fears,
, His memory swells to a height sublime,
And grows with the growing years.
This night the wreath renew
Around that noble head,
And bend 'the soul of the leal and true
At the shrine of the mighty dead.
O ! weave ye a chaplet fair,
And weave it of ivy green ;
And plant ye the sweetest of wildings there.
To bloom in the glittering sheen.
Say, what shall the garland be?
The daisy that spangles the sod ;
The blue-hell that waves on the pearly lea,
Where the feet of the minstrel tro'd^
A spray of the milk-white thorny
That has listened the tender tale ;
And the rose-bud that wakes at the kiss of morn,
To breathe out its love on the gale.
Let the bloom of the heather be seen,
From the home of the dancing rills,
When the earth is a glory pf purple and green.
And the -shadows asleep on the liills.
Yet sweeter beyond compare,
And flushed with a lovelier hue.
Are the orient blooms of that garden fair
Where the sun never sipped the dew.
In the beating hearts of men
As they struggle and toil for bread ;
As they hope, and fear, and rejoice — and then
Are peacefully laid with the dead.
The quivering thrill of love ;
The music of fireside glee ;
The anthem that swells to the Heaven above
From the hearts of the pure and free.
The leap of the exile's heart
At the sound of old Scotia's name ;
The joy that heroic deeds impart,
And the patriot's noble flame.
The pride of lowly worth ;
The clasp of an honest hand ;
The faith divine that the sons of earth
In brotherhood all shall stand. ^
These, these are the blossoms rare
We shall bind on his sacred brow ; '
And we summon the sduls that beheld him there
To join in our homage now.
Then reach ye adown the past—
The love of a loyal hand ;
And welcome the brothers that bind us fast
To that soul in the silent land.
a;i)e ^oetsi^artreate of tl)c llolije. 249
THE POETS-LAUREATE OF THE LODGE.
1787— 1796. Robert Burns. See ante. Chapter vill.
1835. James Hogg, the " Ettrick Shepherd." See ante. Chapter xiv.
1836— 1841. WilliamHay. See a«/«, note to page 211. "The Lintieo' Moray, "a Col-
lection of Songs of the Edinburgh Morayshire Society, a large portion of
which were composed by William Hay. The original edition was edited
by George Gumming, W.S. (see ante, page 217), and during the period
in question — 1829 to 1841— the Lodge was regularly attended by their
most intimate associates, such as " Christopher North" ; John Thomson
Gordon, Sheriff of Midlothian j Robert Grant of Kincorth ; and many
others.
1842—1845. E. W. Lane, M.D.
1846— 1849. Francis Nicoll.
1850 — 1851. James Marshall.
1851 — 1853. M. J. Mausibinis.
1854 — 1859. William Pringle.
i860— 1871. Anthony O'Neal Have, Editor of TAe Scottish Freemason Magazine
(now dormant), and R.W.M. of Lodge St. Stephen, No. 145.
1872 — 1878. Captain Lawrence Archer.
1879— 1880. Bryan Charles Waller, of Masongill, M.D., and R.W.M. 1881.
1881 — 1887. Andrew Stevenson, M.A. (See ante, page 248.)
1888. Charles H, M'Kay.
Just on the eve of publishing this Volume the celebration of the Bi-Centenary of Lodge Canongate and
Leith Leith and Canongate, No. 5, has taken place — 5th May 1888. Nearly two hundred Brethren attended,
and the K.W. Master, Brother Alex. Clark, .S.S.C., presided. A large deputation from Grand Lodge was
present, headed by the M.W. Grand Master Sir Archibald C Campbell, of BIythswood, Bart., M.P.,
accompanied by Brothers W. J. C Abbot, P.M. No. i, acting S.G.W.; Allan Mackenzie, P.M. No. 2,
acting J.G.W. ; D. Murray Lyon, Grand Secretary; David Kinnear, Grand Cashier; and others.
Amongst the deputations from Sister Lodges was one from Canongate Kilwinning, headed by the R.W.
Master, Brother James Drummond, W.S.
32
INDEX.
A.
Abercrombie, Sir Ralph, K.B., of Tullibody, ?8. '
Aberdour, Sholto Charles, Lord. See Morton, l6th Earl of.
Actors, galaxy of. Members in 1 76 1, 89.
Ainslie, Daniel, 142.
Aleppo, Charter granted in St. John's Chapel constituting Lodge at, 73.
Asylum for Industrious Blind, collection made for, 151.
Atholl, John, Duke of, fac-simile of signature, loi.
Aytoun, Professor W. Edmondstoune, presents St. Clair's Deed of Election to Lodge, 40 ;
thanked by Lodge, 222; elected R.W.M., 215.
B.
Baillie, Sir William, of Lamington, 48; First Senior Grand Warden, 41.
Ballot, Members elected by, 30 ; dispensed with at election of St. Clair, ib.
Barclay, Rev. Dr. John, 134.
Beugo, John, engraver of Nasmyth's portrait of Burns, 106.
Bible, " Breeches," presented to Lodge, 173S, 43 ; folio do., 1736, 52.
Bi-centenary of Lodge, proceedings at celebration, 231 ei seg.
Binning, Lord, fac-simile of signature, 94.
Blackwood, Robert, publisher, 206.
Blair, James, of Glenfoot, 211 ; elected Master, 217.
Boswell, James, of Auchinleck (biographer of Johnson), 27 ; elected Master, 97 ; fac-simile
of signature, ib.
Boswell, John, M.D., 63; appointed by Grand Lodge to visit and report on condition of
French prisoners, ib.
Boyle, Hon. William George, 226.
Brougham,, Henry, Lord Chancellor of England, 142.
Browne, John Mills, P.G.M. of California, note by, in Attendance Book, 231.
Bruce, of Kinnaird, the Abyssinian traveller, 78.
Buchan, Earl of, G.M. 1782, fac-simile of signature, I06.
lincljanatt — <>rAnongftte. 251
Buchanan, Francis, of Arnpryer, 55.
Burnes, James, M.D., LL.D., F.R.S., 204; receives vote of thanks for services to Lodge,
112.
Burns, Robert, Poet-Laureate, 27 ; narrative of connection with Canongate Kilwinning, lo8;
Laureated, 1 1 1 ; his friends in Canongate Kilwinning, ib. ; erection of mausoleum,
112, 173; correspondence regarding do., 113 etseg.; correspondence r^arding his
connection with Canongate Kilwinning, 116 et sea.; painting of "Inauguration,"
124; criticisms thereof, ii. ; prominent brethren depicted, 125; centenary of
laureation, ii. ; speech delivered thereat, ii. ; remarks by " Ettrick Shepherd " on
being elected successor, 203 ; discussion regarding print of " Inauguration," 227.
Bye-Laws, drawn up, 207 ; report thereon, 208.
Byrne, Brother, "the last of the old Irish Harpers," visits Canongate Kilwinning, 224.
0.
Callander, Major, of Craigforth, 91.
Cameron, Evan, of Fassifern, 85.
Campbell, William, of Fairfield, 107.
Canongate Kilwinning, No. 2, obtains Charter from the mother Lodge, 9 ; original name
of Lodge, ii. ; bi-centenary celebrated, 11, 231 ; takes initiative in forming Grand
Lodge, 31-38 ; requests confirmation of Charter from Mother Kilwinning, 46 ;
mother Lodge's reply, 47 ; ordains and consecrates Leith Kilwinning Lodge, ib. ;
endeavours to arrange for Lodge-room, ib. ; St. John's Chapel built and consecrated,
49; present from the Lodge of Greenock, 53; contributes for apartments for
brethren in Royal Infirmary, 56 ; contributes for relief of indigent Scotch Episcopal
clergy, 58 ; purchase of 108 gallons rum and 255 lbs. sugar for Lodge, 60 ; two
brethren entered anew, 62 ; hymns sung to memory of deceased brother, 63 ;
interested in election of minister of Canongate, 64 ; suffers much in 1745, 67 ; again
interested in election of minister of Canongate, 74 ; subscribes to fund for erecting
public buildings, 77 ; Lodge-room repaired and painted, 8r ; yields place to younger
Lodges at St. Andrew's Festival, 90 ; treats for piece of ground adjacent to St. John's
Chapel, 91 ; allows use of Lodge-room for purposes other than Masonry, 93 ; mem-
bers of band of music admitted free of charge, 95 ; agrees to form Associate Lodge
with Lodge of Haddington, loi ; Lodge St. Giles, incorporated with, 103 ; agrees
to procure a Lodge Seal, 106 ; members of band of singers admitted free of charge at
request of Grand Lodge, 128 ; secedes from Grand Lodge, 153 ; proceedings which
followed, 154 et seq. ; "First that graces the Roll of the Grand Lodge," 176;
appoints corresponding Member in London, 1 79 ; meets at Cleikum Inn to initiate
the "Ettrick Shepherd," 202 ; bye-laws drawn up, 207 ; upwards of seventy Members
present from, at Centenary Festival of Grand Lodge, 1837, 213 ; declines to be
present at laying foundation-stone of Kirk of Scotland Assembly Hall, 218 ; discon-
tinuance of weekly meetings considered, 225 ; difficulty of obtaining admission to
Lodge, ib. ; method of dispensing charity, ib. ; two volumes of Roll of Members
presented, ib. ; list of Members who have been Grand Master Masons of Scotland, 228.
252 , Slje fflanongate ftilTOtnnmg IDobge, fto. 2.
Canongate Kilwinning from Leith. ' See St. David's Lodge. '
Canongate and Leith, ,I<eith and Canongate Lodge, seceded from Mary's Chapel Lodge,
42 ; ignored in negotiations for formation of Grand Lodge, id,
Carnegie, Sir David, 131.
Cauvin, Louis, founder of Cauvin's Hospital and friend of Burns, 101.
Celtic Lodge, institution of, 183.
Charter granted to Canongate Kilwinning, 9-12 ; Premier Scottish Warrant of Constitution,
1 1 ; letter to mother Lodge regarding confirmation, 44 ; her reply, 47. .
Charteris, Francis, of Amisfield (Lord Elcho), Grand Master, fac-simile of signature, 107.
Clothing and jewels, not taken out of Lodge except when, visiting Grand Master, 107 ; new
ribbons and jewels procured, 128 ; clothing stamped with iron of Lodge and repaired,
169.
Cochrane, Hon. Charles, 91.
Cormack, Sir John Rose, M.D.,^ Paris, 209.
Coutts, James, banker, founder of Coutts' Bank, 80.
Crichton, Dr. Wm. Archibald, Physician to the Grand Duke Nicholas of Russia, 174.
CuUen, William, of Parkhead, loi.
Cumming, William, banker, 53.
Dalhousie, George, 8th Earl of, 91 ; Grand Master of Scotland, 93 ; fac-simile of sig-
nature, a.
Dalhousie, George, 9th Earl of, 144 ; Grand Master of Scotland, ii. ; fac-simile of sig- '
nature, 145 ; letter from, 190. ,
Dalhousie, James Andrew, loth Earl and 1st Marquis of, while Lord Ramsay, 205 ; conveys
address by Lodge to H.R.H. the Duke of Sussex, and reports, 209; Grand Master
of Scotland, 213; fac-simile of sigitature, 206.
Dalrymple, David, Grand Master, 98 ; eulogy to Lodge when visiting as Grand Master,
99 ; fac-simile of signature, id.
Dashkov, His Highness Paul, Prince of, 103. '
Deacon, office first instituted, 12, 173.
Deed of Surrender by St. Clair of Rosslyn, 37 ; of his election as First Grand Master,, 44.
Dick, Sir Alexander, of Prestonfield, Bart., 83.
Diploma, specimen of, issued by Canongate Kilwinning in 1791, 138 ; new, issued 1802,
144 ; new plate ordered, 1833, 197 ; plate improved, 1841, 217.
Douglas, Dr. John, 48 ; mourning at his death, 72.
Drummond, Alexander, H.M. Consul at Aleppo, elected Master, 87 ; causes Committee to
be formed to consider uniformity bf working amongst Lodges, 88.
Drummond, George, Lord Provost, 78 ; first Brother recorded in Mary's Chapel Records
as having been raised Master Mason, 29 ; elected Master Canongate Kilwinning, 90 ;
procures Act for extending the royalty of Edinburgh and ereqting' public buildings,
77 ; Grand Master of Scotland, id. ; fac-simile of signature, 90 ; Funeral Lodge at
death, 92.
Pntmntonb— /rasier. 253
Drummond, James, 3rd Duke of Perth, fac-simile of signature, 58.
Drummond, John, of Hawthornden, 221.
Drummond, Richard Hay, of Hawthornden, ib.
Drummond, Thomas, Lord, 93.
Drummore, Lord, 51 j action in Court before, 70.
Drybrough, Councillor Thomas, 221 ; elected Master, ib. ; performed valuable services to
Canongate Kilwinning, ib.
Dumfries, Earl of. Grand Master, fac-simile of signature, 96.
Dunbar, Sir George, 106.
Dunbar, Sir William, of Hempriggs, Bart., 81.
Dundonald, Earl of, visits Lodge, 80; son admitted Member, 91.
Dunglass, Lord, 98.
E.
Elliot, Sir Walter, of Wolflee, 211.
Entrance fee, higher than other Lodges, agreed that it be reduced, 71 ; again raised, 78 ;
afterwards reduced, 79.
Errol, 14th Earl of, 107.
Errol, isth Earl of, 146.
Erskine, Hon. Henry, advocate. Dean of Faculty, elected Master, 105 ; fac-simile of
signature, ib. ; obliged to resign office in consequence of professional engagements, ib.
Fergusson, Alexander, of Craigdarroch, elected Master, 106 ; proposed Burns as Member
of Lodge, 109; presided at "Inauguration," 125.
Festivals, Annual, held, attended by all Lodges, governed by Masters in rotation, 223.
Fines, levied for absence from meetings, 28 ; applied in paying refreshments, 30.
Fire, great, in City in 1824, 189.
Forbes, James, 16th Baron, fac-simile of signature, 81.
Forbes, Lord, Aide-de-Camp to Lord Moira, 146.
Forbes, Sir William, of Pitsligo, Bart., banker, 8$ ; elected Grand Master of Scotland, 99 ;
fac-simile of signature, ib. ; address to Grand Lodge at death of St. Clair of
Rosslyn, ib.
Foulis, Sir James, Bart., 132.
Foundation-stone, of Edinburgh University laid, 128 ; of New Wet Docks, Leith, 142 ;
of Regent Bridge and New Jail, 170; of National Monument, 184; of High School,
191 ; of Southern and Western Bridges, 194 ; of Sir Walter Scott's Monument, 215 ;
of Kirk of Scotland Assembly Hall, which Brethren decline to attend, 218.
Fraser, William N., of Tornaveen, 226 ; elected Master, ib. ; re-elected, ib. ; Chairman of
Committee, ib. ; speech of, at centei\ary of Bums' laureation, 125.
254 ^be C^anongate ^tltDtnntng l^obge, ^o. 2.
Frazer, George, R.W.M. of Canongate Kilwinning, lo, il, 28, 29, 35; consecrates St.
John's Chapel, 49 ; fac-simile of signature, U. ; disagreements regarding title-deeds
of St. John's Chapel, 69 ; action in Court before Lord Drummore, 70 ; re-elected
R.W.M,, 73.
Frazer, Hon. Hugh, of Lovat, 84.
Freemasons, school for female children of, 214.
G.
George IH., H.M. King, mourning of Lodge at death of, 180.
George IV., H.M. King, address to, as Patron, 181 ; his reply thereto, 1^2.
Graham, William, of Airth, 79.
Grand Lodge of Scotland, Canongate Kilwinning takes initiative in formation of, 31 ;
proposals from Kilwinning Scots Arms Lodge regarding do., 32; minutes of
meetings regarding do., 31, 32 ; circular letter sent to Scottish Lodges regarding do.,
35; minute of Grand Lodge anent St. Clair's hereditary" right, 40; laxity of some
Lodges in recording Members in books of, 74 ; secession of Lodges from, 153 et seq. ;
exclusion of office-bearers of higher degrees from, 175 ; celebration of St, Andrew's
Festival postponed because of Great Fire, 189 ; celebrates centenary, 213 ; three
latest visitations to Canongate Kilwinning, 229.
Grand Master Mason of Scotland, St. Clair of Rosslyn, hereditary, 31 ; initiated in Canon-
gate Kilwinning, ib. ; surrenders hereditary right, 36 ; Deed of Surrender, 37 ; first
elective, 38 ; opposed by Earl of Home, ib.
Grand Secretary, Assistant proposed, 191 ; disturbance in Grand Lodge in consequence,
U, ; consideration of, in Canongate Kilwinning, 193.
Grant, Robert, of Kincorth, 211.
Greenock Lodge presents Canongate Kilwinning with Book of Verses, 54.
Gregory, Professor James, 130.
Gordon, Thomas, of Earlston,'58.
Gordon, Hon. Mr., of Kenmure, 107.
Gordon, Charles Hamilton, advocate, 79 ; elected Grand Master of Scotland, ib. ; fac-
simile of signature, ib.
H.
Haddington, Lodge of, forms Associate Lodge with Canongate Kilwinning, 191 ei seq.
Haddo, George, Lord, ICXD ; Grand Master of Scotland, 106 ; fac-simile of signature, ib.
Haliburton, George, eldest Bailie of Edinburgh, 55.
Haliburton, James, of Pitcurr, 48.
Hay, Andrew, of Mugdrum, 48 ; elected Master of Canongate Kilwinning, 67 ; do. Junior
Grand Warden, ib.-
Hay, William, " The Lintie o' Moray," 211.
Higher degrees, office-bearers of, excluded from Grand Lodge, 175.
Itll— fa'jBottnell. 255
Hill, General, of Fhiladelphia, 65.
Hogg, James, the " Ettrick Shepherd," 202 ; elected Poet-Laureate, 208 ; fac-simile of
signature, 204 ; death of, 210.
Home, Sir John, of Renton, Bart., 83.
Honorary Members, admission of, regulated, 131.
Hunter-Blair, Sir James, Bart., banker, 82; reference to, 215.
I.
Inventory of property as at 4th December 1751, 72.
Journeymen, Lodge, seceded from Mary's Chapel, 42 ; ignored in negotiations for formation
of Grand Lodge, ib. ; complains of reduction of fees of admission, 104.
Kemp, architect of Scott's Monument, Funeral Lodge of, 222.
Kenmure, John Gordon, 8th Viscount, 65.
Kennedy, Lord Gilbert, 226.
Kennedy, Lord Nigel, 226,
Kerr, Lord Robert, 91.
Kerr, Scott, of Chatto, 211.
Kilmarnock, Earl of, Grand Master, fac-simile of signature, 63.
Kilwinning Scots Arms Lodge (dormant), proposals anent Grand Master, 32.
Kinloch, Colonel, of Kilrie, 221.
Kintore, John, 3rd Earl of, Grand Master of Scotland and afterwards of England, fac-simile
of signature, 56.
Knight Templars, ofKce-bearers of, excluded from Grand Lodge, 177 ; make presentation
to Canongate Kilwinning, 179.
Leith Kilwinning, petition by Brethren to Canongate Kilwinning to form Lodge, 47 ;
accordingly Lodge instituted, ib. ; St. David's Lodge an offshoot from, 48.
Leven, David, Earl of, 83.
Lothian, William, 6lh Earl of, when Earl of Ancrum, 131 ; fac-simile of signature, 138.
M.
M'Donnell, Alexander, of Glengarry, 85.
256 Sri)e STanongate ^iltDtnntng %obQt, fio, 2.
M'Donnell, Duncan, of Glengarry, 91.
M'Dowall, Captain, ofWoolmet, ib.
M'Dowall, Colonel, ofLpgan, 225.
M'Leod of M'Leod, 84.
Mackenzie, Sir George, 142.
, Mary's Chapel, Lodge No. i, meets with Lodges to concert measures for election of Grand
Master, 32 ; suspends a Member for an indignity to Canongate Kilwinning, 62 ;
meets in St. John's Chapel, 150; ladies present at Annual Festival, and proceedings
which followed, 219.
Masonic Hall, proposed for Grand Lodge, 138; Lodge agrees to subscribe to, 141 ; joint
meeting of Lodges in, 168.
Master Mason, earliest mention of degree is in Canongate Kilwinning Minutes, 29 ; when
degree first mentioned in minutes of other Scottish Lodges, ib.
Meetings of Lodge, where held originally, 10; interrupted in 1715-35 through devotion of
Members to Stuart cause, 27 ; Members fined for absence^from, 28 ; irregular in 1745,
66 ; regulations regarding occasional, 98 ; closed because of disturbance in city, 101 ;
irregular meetings of Members, 162 r, discontinuance of weekly meetings discussed,
225.
Members, devoted to Stuart cause, 27 ; system of election of, 30 ; ordained to pay for gloves
and aprons on St. Andrew's Day, 50 ; customary to initiate on behalf of other
Lodges, 89, 138, 140; two Members of French Lodge passed and raised, 215;
majority of, also Members of College of Justice in 1840, 217 ; list of, who have been
Grand Masters of Scotland, 228.
Middleton, John, M.D., R.W.M. at time of bi-centenary, 11.
Miller, John, advocate and historian, elected Substitute Master when office first instituted,
1788, 12.
Minutes, how preserved, 12 ; earliest existing, 28 ; earliest recording admission of Master
Mason, 29 ; earliest regarding election of Grand Master, 31 ; consecration of Leith
Kilwinning Lodge, 48 ; consecration of St. John's Chapel, 49 ; anent "annual poor's
payments," 58 ; regarding death of Dr. Douglas, 72; status of Canongate Kilwinning,
90 ; institution of Scots Greys Lodge, 95 ; holograph, by Boswell of Auchinleck, 97 ;
formation of Associate Lodge with Lodge of Haddington, loi ; incorporation of St.
Giles Lodge with Canongate Kilwinning,, 183 ; affiliation of Burns, 109. .
Mitchell, Dr. John, proposes resolution anent religion, 153 ; troubles which follow,
153 et seq.
Mpnboddo, James Burnet, Lord, 84.
Moray, Francis, 9th Earl of, 131.
Morris, Rob., LL.D., Poet-Laureate of Freemasonry in America, note by him in Attendance
Book, 231.
Morton, Sholto Charles, l6th Earl of, while Lord Aberdour, 82 ; Grand Master of Scotland,
38 ; first re-elected to that office, ibl ; also Grand Master of England, 50 ; fac-simil?
of signature, 82.
Morton, George, 17th Earl of, 130; fac-simile of signature, ib.
|Eot|)er ILodge— ^eligton. 25?
Mother Lodge of Scotland, Kilwinning, giants Charter to Canongate Kilwinning, 1677, 9 ;
engrossed verbatim in her books, 12 ; sends Proxy to Canongate Kilwinning for
election of St. Clair, 35 ; suggestions for regulation of Grand Lodge, ib. ; requested
to confirm Charter, 44 ; agrees, 47 ; writes to Canongate Kilwinning, suggesting that
Members of either Lodge be regarded as Members of the other, ib. ; R.W.M. of,
visits Canongate Kilwinning, 52 ; Canongate Kilwinning subscribes to fund for new
Lodge-room for, 105.
Murray, Sir Alexander, of Balmano, 96.
Murray, Sir James, Bart., of Hillhead, 96.
Murray, John, of Broughton, 57 ; unanimously agreed to expunge name from Lodge Records,
63 ; fac-simile of signature as expunged, 63.
N.
Napier, B'rancis, 7th Lord, Grand Master, fac-simile of signature, 127.
Napier, Hon. Colonel William, afterwards Lord, 94.
Nasmyth, Alexander, artist, too.
Nicolson, Sir William, 48.
Nisbet, William, of Dirleton, 65.
Office-bearers, List of, from 1734 to 1837, 13-25; election of, on 24th June annually, 30;
Deacons first instituted, 12 ; Substitute Master, ib., 127 ; Past Master formerly styled
Old Master, 53.
Organ, negotiations regarding, 65-67; London maker commissioned to build new, 80;
preparations for its reception, 83.
Oswald, James Townsend, of Dunnikeir, 91.
P.
Percy, Lord Algernon, 93.
Polish Patriots present portrait of R.W.M. to Lodge, 206; letter of thanks therefor, 207 ;
Members, 209.
Pringle, James, of Stitchell, 221.
R.
Ramsay, Allan, junior, believed to be artist of St. Clair's portrait, 28.
Ramsay, James Andrew, Lord, See Dalhousie, Earl of.
Rancliffe, Lord, 146.
Raneleigh, Lord, 225.
Records, Lodge, previous to 1735 lost, 27.
Religion, Established, Dr Mitchell's motion regarding, and disputes which followed, L53.
2s8 Wjt fflanongate ^tltommng l^obge, ^o. 2.
Report of liodge affairs, 1753, 75. /
Roll of Members, compiled by R.W.M., and presented to Lodge, 228.
Roman Eagle, Lodge, celebrated its jubilee in St. John's Chapel, 212.
Rosslyn, 4th Earl of, then Lord Loughborough, elected D.M., 228.
Royal Arch Chapter Canongate Kilwinning, No. 56, instituted, 178.
s.
Sablankoff, Major-General, 144.
St. Andrew, Lodge, No. 48, Funeral Lodge for Brother Kemp, 222 ; celebrates centenary,
223.
St. Clair, Lodge, No. 349, consecrated in St. John's Chapel, 224.
St. Clair, William, of Rosslyn, Hereditary Grand Master Mason, 31 ; ballot dispensed with
at admission, 30, 32 ; fac-simile of signature, 35 ; surrenders hereditary right, 36 ;
elected Grand Master, 38 ; deed of election, 40 ; presides at consecration of St.
John's Chapel, 49 ; picture of, painted by Allan Ramsay, 28 ; Sir William Forbes,
address to Grand Lodge at death of, 99 ; picture of, lent to Grand Lodge for cen-
tenary celebration, 213.
St. David's, Lodge, No. 36, originally Canongate Kilwinning from Leith, 48 ; descent '
from Canongate Kilwinning, ii.; Sir Walter Scott, Bart., a Member of, ik; first
appearance in Canongate Kilwinning records as St. David's, 82 ; poetical reference
in records of, regarding death of Lord Provost Drummond, 91 ; notes regarding
formation of, 1 56.
St, Giles', Lodge, formerly Vernon Kilwinning, amalgamated with Canongate Kilwinning,
103 ; notes regarding formation of, 166.
St. John Baptist's Day, election of Office-Bearers on, 30. ,
St.'John's Chapel, erection of, 10; access to, changed, 11, 195; where situated, 26; title
deeds, 65 ; dispute regarding title, 68 ; lawyers employed, 70 ; action raised, but
referred to arbitration, ii. ; dispute settled, 73 ; purchase of adjacent ground, 91 ;
re-roofed and repaired, 93 ; further repaired, 165 ;' Supreme Grand ,R. A. Chapter
of Scotland instituted within, 175; gas introduced, 179; titles completed, 199; joint
meeting of Lodges within, to consider irregularities in Mary's Chapel, 219 ; dispute
regarding entrance by St. John Street, 222 ; Lodge St. Clair consecrated in, 224 ;
drainage and damage repaired, 226.
St. John Street, historical description of, 26-27.
" Scots Greys," Royal North British Dragoons, Regimental Lodge erected and consecrated
within Canongate Kilwinning, 95.
Scott, Sir John, of Ancrum, 49.
Scott, Sir Walter, Bart., of Abbotsford, Member of St. David's, 48; monument to, 215-
217 ; statue of, 223.
Scott, Captain Walter, H.E.LC.S., 211.
Scott, Walter Scott Lockhart, of Abbotsford, 225 j speech at his initiation, ib.
Seal, procured for Lodge, 106 ; lost, restored, and again lost, 106 ; new one ordered, 143 ;
die restored, 223.
^ecegsfion— Volunteers. 259
Secession from Grand Lodge, causes, 153 ; seceding Lodges, ib. ; meetings which followed,
154; report thereanent, 155-158; protest against, 159-162; overtures for reunion, 162;
reunion accomplished, 164.
Shaw-Stewart, Sir Michael, Bart., Grand Master, presides at bi-centenary, 11, 231.
Sheridan, Thomas, aide-de-camp to Earl Moira, 146.
Sinclair, Hon. Alexander Eric George, 227.
Sinclair, Sir John, of Ulbster, Bart., 96.
Sinclair, Robert, of Scotscalder, 96.
Sister Lodges "in and about Edinburgh," List of, 229, 230.
Six Feet Club, R.W.M. in 1826 first captain of, 194.
Spens, Dr. Nathaniel, 74; elected R.W.M., 100; fac-simile of signature, ib.
Steuart, W. M., of Glenmorriston, 2ri.
Steuart, Walter, of Steuarthall, elected Master though only an apprentice at the time, 84.
Steward, elected annually by Lodge for Grand Lodge, 104 ; expelled for improper be-
haviour, ib.
Stewart, Dugald, Professor of Moral Philosophy, 98.
Stewart, Dr. Matthew, Professor of Mathematics, 73.
Stirling, Patrick, of Kippendavie, 143.
Stuart, Lord Dudley Coutts, 209.
Substitute Master, office of, first instituted, 12.
Supreme Grand R. A. Chapter of Scotland, instituted in St. John's Chapel, 175.
Sussex, H.R.H. The Duke of. Grand Master of England, address of condolence to, 208 ;
reply thereto, 209.
Thistle Lodge, dispute with, 147 ; apology by them, 149; meeting thereafter, 152.
Thomson, Jamie, the Kinleith poet, visits Lodge, 141.
Torphichen, James Sandilands, 9th Lord, 107 ; elected Master, 127.
Tyler, first mentioned in Minutes, 84 ; provided with new uniform for Eltrick Shepherd's
initiation, 205.
u.
University of Edinburgh, foundation-stone laid, 128.
V.
Vernon Kilwinning Lodge, See St. Giles' Lodge.
Vicissitudes of Lodge through devotion of Members to Stuart cause, 27.
Victoria, H.M. Queen, address on accession of, 213 ; reply thereto, 214.
Volunteers, Royal Edinburgh, meeting of, to unite with Masonry, 133.
26o ^Ift ^Atiottz&U ^tltDinnlng l^obge, ^o. 2.
W.
Wales, H.R.H. Princess Charlotte of, mourning for death of, 176.
Walpole, Hon. Henry, 221.
Wa«;rant to work at Innerleithen, 202.
Warrender, George, younger of Bruntsfield, 90.
Wauchope, Andrew, of Niddiry, 221.
Wanchope, Sir John Don, of Edmonstone, Bart, , 225,
Wellington, Duke of, inauguration of statue of, 227..
Whitefoord, Sir John, Bart., 91.
Wigton, Charles Fleming, Earl of, 74.
Working, Committee to consider uniformity of, 86.
Wyndham, R. H., Theatre Royal, 226; Master of Ceremonies, ii.
Yair, Rev. James, of Cawnpore, 74.
Young, Colonel John,»82.
Reprinted from the "Freemason," June i6rt, i8
Lodge Canongate, Kilwinning.
The history of the venerable and distinguished " Lodge Canongate Kilwinning,''
dating from 1677, is now an accomplished fact, through the services of one of its
respected Past Masters, Bro. Allen Mackenzie, * who has every reason to be satis-
fied with the result of his labours as author. To a great extent he has let the
records speak for themselves, and " so far so good," but added to these old and
deeply interesting minutes of " ye olden tyme," Bro. Mackenzie has wisely appended
particulars of the eventful lives of many of the distinguished members, who have
from time to lime been enrolled as brethren of the " mystic tie," under the wing
of No. i:.
Although the handsome volume runs to some 260 pages, and is literally " packed "
with details of lodge lifeandcontemporary events, extending over a period of nearly
two centuries, we long for more, and have completed our perusal of the noble history,
with the predominant feeling uppermost, that we wish there had been a second
volume, so ably has Bro. Mackenzie acquitted himself as the historian of one of
the most ancient and remarkable lodges in existence.
Beyond question, as the author observes in the brief preface, when an Institu-
tion has survived the vicissitudes of over two centuries, it becomes entitled to our
veneration and respect. It is, therefore, a fair subject of congratulation that Canon-
gate Kilwinning Loi^ge has not only existed for that period, but has assembled in
the same district, tinder the same name, and for over mic hundred and fifty years
under the same roof. The hall where the lodge assembles in St. John-street, was
built in 1736, and is considered to be the oldest of its kind, owned or used by a
lodge. We believe it is, and congratulate the members on being the landlords of
such an ancient Masonic building. We feel certain that even Philadelphia, U.S.A.,
cannot equal this record, which has the first of so many good things. The two
photographs of the interior of the Masonic Hall, looking S.W. and N.E. res-
pectively, give a capital idea of the spacious character of the building, and of its
artistic adornment and Masonic fittings. The one view exhibits a series of attrac-*
tive articles, &c., such as the organ built in 17S4, a curious allegorical painting on
the wall, portraits, banner, &c. The other represents a fine interior, showing the
old painting of St. Clair of Rosslyn, the first G.M. (a.d. 1736) and member of the
lodge, the splendid chair for the R.W.M.; "Burns' Corner" being the chief and
honoured' portion of the hall, hence the choice of the N.E. for this truly Masonic
souveliir'. ■, The-'third illustration of the interior we leave for description, when we
have ocfcasion to refer to the affiliation of Bro. Robert Burns as a member of No. 2.
* *' History of the Lodge Canongate Kilwinning, No. -2, compiled from the records,
1677-188S by Allan Mackenzie. R.W.M. 1883-1887, &c., Edinburgh. Printed for the
lodge by Bro. James Hogg, North Bank-street. MDCCCLXXXVIII "
It appears that a number of operative Masons from the Canongate, Edinburgh,
petitioned the old Lodge of Kilwinriing to grant them permission to enter and pass
persons in its name and on its behalf. On the 20th December, 1677, 12 of them
attended, were accepted as Masons, and were duly authorised accordingly. The
signatures and marks are appended to the minute in the records, which states at
the 'kludge of Kilwinning," these brethren " of the Canongate " were granted liberty
to "enter, receave, and pase any qualified persons that they think fitt in name and
behalf of the ludge of Kilwinning and to pay ther entry and booking moneys to the
sd ludge as we do ourselves, they sending on of thet number to us yearly and we to
do the lyke to them, if need be." A facsmile of this entry appears in Bro. D.
Murray Lyon's history of No. i, Scotland, and is given " verbatim et literatim " in
the history of lodge No. 2. It appears to us that the last sentence {in italics)
proves that these brethren were virtually formed into a lodge there and then, and
though in a measure dependent on its mother lodge, was to all intents and purposes
a veritable lodge in Edinburgh. Whether a copy of this authorization or warrant
was given to the founders we cannot now say — if so, the original is missing — but
the entry aforesaiS in the minute book of No. o, Kilwinning, is beyond question,
the volume being still preserved, and thus contains the premier Scottish warrant or
Constitution, as Bro. Mackenzie claims. Nay more, it is the first of the kind
known.
We quite think with Bro. Lyon that "its assumption of an independent body
would be almost contemporaneous with its erection as a branch; for it does not ap-
pear ever to have made any return of its intrants to Kjlwinning ; " neither
apparently did its aged mother long object (if at all) to its neglect of financial
obligations, as it appears that in 1736 "Kilwinning" brethren favoured the candi-
date of the " Canongate Kilwinning " for the Grand Mastership of Scotland.
We are told, and told truly, that this lodge is one as famous for her vicissitudes
of fortune as for the brilliant and celebrated men whom she calls her sons. In
neither of these characters has she a rival ; for while her lot has been to suffer
greater misfortunes than any other lodge, her roll of members is one that no other
kindred society can equal. Twenty-two members of the lodge have been Grand
Masters of Scotland, and many of the greatest men of the past and present cen-
turies have been entered on its distinguished register.
" At the beginning of last century the lodge numbered amongst its members the
foremost noblemen and gentlemen of Scotland who were devoted to the Stuart
cause. The unsuccessful rising in 1715 sent those who had escaped death on the
battlefield into exile ; and during the confusion attendant on those times, the whole
early records of the lodge were lost or destroyed, and no trace of them can now
be found."
This regretted loss of the earliest records leaves a blank that the historian of
the lodge is unable to fill, but it is reassuring to find that the survivors met about
the beginning of 1735 and resumed the meetings. We are not all convinced that
the lodge was dormant prior to this year, and in the absence of evidence, our belief
in its continuity is entitled to as much regard as the opposite view of the case.
The facilites offered by a Masonic Lodge are considered by many to have been
utilised by the Jacobites for their own purposes, and, doubtless, there is much to
favour such a supposition.
Excepting a few lapses during the last 30 years, the volumes of records are well
preserved, from February 13th, 1735, to the present time. The earliest minutes
proves that it was not the first of any new effort or resuscitation, as the entry be-
gins ''The lodge having met according to adjournment,^' when the meeting
appointed a Committee for the preparation of by-laws to be laid before the R.W.M.
and Wardens on the 27th of that month.
The earliest Scottish records relative to the Master Masons' Degree are to be
found in the first minute book preserved of this old lodge. On 25th March,
[Tuesday] 1735, "A Quarterly Communication" was held, when the lodge was
adjourned to " MonAa.y next ior the Masters" [31st March] and to Thursday, the
3rd April, for " the whole lodge." The Masters' lodge (Third Degree), accord-
ingly sometimes met on different days, as so many did during the last century in
England, but no separate records were kept, as often was the case in South
Brittain* Accordingly on the day named "admitted William Montgomery.
Fellow Craft, and William Robertson, Robert Blisset, and George Frazer, Mmt'er
Masons." The first reference to this Degree by "Mother Kilwinning" was on
June 24th, 1736, when it was enacted that those brethren who had duly qualified
as Apprentices and Fellows of Craft " shall be Ra^'d to ye dignity of Waiter
gratis." In No, 1, Edinburgh, according to Bro. Lyon, the first record of the kind
is dated November i, 1738, when a brother who had then taken the fir-.t two Degrees
was " also raised as a Master Mason in due forme." " St. D ivids,' " Edinburt;h,
however, is third in oraer of priority, their first minute "of the Degree of .Master
Mason" bearing date March 2nd, 173^. The earliest record of the kind in
England is rather more than ten years earlier.
Fines. were strictly enforced for non-attlendance, and, doubtless, the brethren
who regularly assembled were all the more ready to see they were infiicted ; as
Bro. Mickenzie tells us the money was laid out in refreshments lur the even n.;,
such an order constantly occurring in the minutes.
The roll of members, containing several thousands of names, is carefully written
in alphabetical order, and bound in two handsome volumes. The Historian has
made selections from this roll (from 1736 down to 1857) -irranged alphabetically,
with the dates of initiations, and notes as to their general and .Ma-.onic titles when
needful (occupying eleven pages), but as these include su many worthy and dis-
tinguished names, we cannot bring our minds to eiiiiinerate any. One uf the chief
attractions provided by Bro. Mackenzie, is the number of facsimile^ of thj auto-
graphs of great Masonic dignitaries profusely scattered over the volume, viz., \Vm.
St. Clair (1st G.M.), Geo. Frazer (D.G.M. 1755-61), C:. H. Gordon (G.M. 175.1I
James [Baron] Forbes (G.M. 1754), Lord Aberdour (G.M. i7sS-6, also t;..\L".ii
England, 1757), Geo. Drummond (G.M. 1752, Lord rm-.'ost, &c.)7Karl of D.ilhoii-iie
(G.M. 1767-8), Lord Benning {Earl i,f Hnihliii..;l.,n), James Bo-,»cll (D.G..M.
1777), David Dalrjrmple ([.,ird Westlwli. G..M. 1774-s), Sir William Korli,-v Ban.
(G.M. 1776-7), N. Spens (D.G.M.), the Hon. Henry Krskine (J.G.W 1771),
Lord Haddo {G.U. 1784-5), F. Chartcris (Lord Kt'ilio, G.,M. 17^(1-7), Lord .\apier,
(G.M. 178S-9), Earl of Morton (G.M. 1790- 1), Earl of Ancnim (ili'iim-. 0/
Lothian, G.M. 1796-7), Janus Hogg, the Ettrick SUeplierd . (Poi-t Laureate), Lord
Dudley C. Stuart, M.P., and others, all of whom wen- mcinoers. Also those of
Grand Masters who visited the lodge officially. Earl of Kintore, (j.M. 17.1S, the
last Earl of [vilmarnock, G.M. 1742, Earl ,if Dumfries, G..M. 1771-2, Duke of
Atholl, G.M. 1778-79, and the Earl of Buchan, G..M. 17S2-3. .\l^„ the Dnkr ..I
Perth and other noblemen.
The list of office bearers from 1734-5 to i8,'i7, is a most painstakingand valuable
compilation, and of great utility for reterencu. Several Lord Provosts held oflire
in the Lodge, the first noted being in 1731^^, the most distinguished, we suppose,
being Geo. Drummond who was the R.\\'..\l in 1764; one even \v,is Secret.iry uf the
lodge; Dr. James Bcswell, Biographer of Dr. Johnson, was D..M. in 1707, and
R.W.M. in 1773. Lord Torpichen was the R.W.M. in 17S7. John Wilson
(Christopher North), D.M, in 1837, Professor Aytoun, R.W..\1. in i8,iy, Dr. Sumer-
ville, in 1843, Lord Loughborough (Earl of Hosslyn, G..M.), D.M. in 1853. Earl
of Strathmore, R.W.M. in 1864, and Allan Mackenzie, R.W.M, in 18S3, who is
now the esteemed Treasurer of the lodge, and its Historian.
" William St. Clair of Rosline, Esqr.," was initiated on i8th May, 1736
This fact alone would make the History of the lodge most memorable, for he it was
who was elected and installed the premier Grand Master of Scotland in the same
year. This brother was "passed" on the 2nd June, and "raised" on .November
3rd. At this meeting, owing to certain officers either being absent or having to
leave during the " work," St. Clair occupied the chairs of the J.W., S.W., and
R.W.M., pro tem., respcctivel}', during the ceremonies, and finallv " dismissed the
Lodge " as Master.
This brother was long thought to have been Grand Master by Hereditary right
(prior to the year 1736), by many of our Masonic Historians, and his appointment
* This interesting question relative to the status and character of Masters' lodges
will be dealt with by Bro. Jno. Lane in a paper to be read before the members and
visitors of the "Quatuor Coronati " Lodje, on Monday, June 25th ensuing.
as such was relied upon to prove the antiquity of the office. Bro. Lyon, however,
long ago exploded that fallacy. In his family, doubtless, for some generations
past, had been vested the right to act as Patrons, Protectors, &c., of the Mason-
Craft, about which more hereafter.
Bro. Mackenzie wisely devotes considerable space to the preliminary arrange-
ments for the formation of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and proves, beyond
question, that the credit of the scheme was due to their lodge, the members being
"wide awake" respecting all that was involved in such an Institution, and by
skilful management secured their latest initiate to be Grand Master, notwithstand-
ing that other lodges had rival candidates. Their piece de resistance carried all
before it ! This was the deed of resignation signed by William St. Clair, for
himself and his successors, of the office and hereditary dignity of " Patron,
Protector, Judge, or Master of the Massons in Scotland," bearing date 24th Nov.
1736, and duly witnessed by the Masters of the lodges. No. 2, and " Leith Kil-
winning." On this document being read to the 33 lodges assembled, on the 30th
of sanfe month, the members by an unanimous vote elected St. Clair as their
Premier Grand Master, and never has there been a more faithful and zealous chief.
We must pass over the numerous and interesting particulars furnished by the
author respecting this eventful period, save to state that some hundred lodges were
invited to take part in the proceedings, many dating from the seventeenth century,
or earlier. The original deed, or rather, transcript of this election, with names of
the participating lodges, &c., &c., is in possession of the lodge, having been pre-
sented by Professor Aytoun, in 1839, the same brother donating the valuable St.
Clair charters of 1600 and 1628 (circa), to the Grand Lodge.
After this grand day came the settlement of the precedency of the lodges, but
though No. 2 possessed no warrant from " Mother Kilwinning," the brethren were
well fortified having petitioned that venerable lodge to acknowledge their " eldest
daughter," as from the year 1677. The letter was all that could be desired from a
child to its parent, and being accompanied with a present, appears to have touched
the heart of the dear old mother, for the request was granted to the fullest extent
possible. The document is signed by the R.W.M., officers, and others, 27 members
in all, and in that form was issued to the lodge, obtaining an official endorsement of
the charter by the Grand Secretary of Scotland, dated 13th April, 1737. A repro-
duction of this ancient warrant forms one of the artistic triumphs of the volume,
the original happily being well preserved to this day.
The first "swarm" from the lodge was the "Leith Kilwinning," 24th June,
1736, the R.W, M. and other members "went this day to Leith and there conse-
crate and ordained a new lodge to be there held." From this branched off No. 36,
St. David's, which has its volumes of records intact, and on whose roll are many
illustrious members, including Sir Walter Scott, Bart.
No. 2 had as visitors on October 6th, 1736, brethren from " Leith, the Lodge at
Paris, and the Lodge at Gateside, in Bishopprick of Durham." On i8th December
of the same year, the Masonic Hall was consecrated, in which the lodge still
assembles. The Grand Master and other dignitaries attended.
When Lord Dunmore was admitted on 3rd January, 1737, the Grand Master was
present, and also the third Earl of Kintore, J.G.W. (who soon became G.M., and also
held same office in England for 1740). The ninth Earl of Kintore is now Substitute
G.M. of Scotland, and is one instance out of many of the Masonic tastes of certain
noble families which have continued from early last century to this day.
George Frazer, on 30th September, 1737, was styled " Old Master," which was
then the equivalent for P.M. or I. P.M. IMany are the curious and racy anecdotes
to be found in the volume before us, pre-eminently Scottish in character and narra-
tive, which do much to relieve the heavier portion of the history, and make the
work " entertaining as a novel," yet withal substantial and invaluable as an
authentic record of the Craft for some two centuries. A few of the " delicious
morsels " we should like to cull for these pages, but really and truly a choice from
such an extensive storehouse would be difficult indeed, so we give up the task of
selection for someone better qualified.
Bro. Mackenzie has given the exact minutes, whenever and wherever desirable,
so that all the quaintness of verbiage and all the singular details are duly repro-
duced, which is much better than turning such excerpts into modern phraseology.
The members were profuse in their charitable donations, even to purposes beyond
the Craft, e.g., the sum of three guineas was voted in 1739 — in response to a
petition — ^for the " Charity for the Relief of the indigent Episcopall Clergy;" and
poor brethren were never neglected whatever might be the other claims on th e
funds. In June, 1741, mention is made of a " Quaker," who, though a brother,
"had beenguilty of ane indignity to the lodge." Possibly this is the earliest reference
to the fact of a Friend being a member of the Craft, On 27th December, 1742,
the lodge exercised its right in voting for the "Call" of the Rev. Hew Blair to
supply the vacancy as one of the ministers of the Canongate. The eighth Vis-
count Kenmure was initiated on 7th December, 1743, whose father was beheaded
on Tower Hill in 1715. The rebellion of 1745-6 interfered a little with the meet-
ings of the lodge, though not so much as we had anticipated. A charter was
signed by the Grand Master for constitutinga lodge at Aleppo, in Turkey, but no
entry is made in the official records of Grand Lodge, the only reference to the
transaction being in the minutes of No. 2. On 21st November, 1752, the lodge
subscribed £20 Stirling, and the members ten guineas to help the funds being raised
to beautify the City of Edinburgh. The hero of Ahnukir Bay. (Sir Ralph Aber-
crombie), was admitted on 25th May, 1753, and on 6th June following the Rev.
Peter Simpson was initiated freel} " out of regard to the ministerial cloth and
character!' Lord Aberdour, Grand Master, visited the lodge 14th December,
17SS1 who was G.M. of England in 1757. The visitations by Grand Master are
too numerous to mention, but we note the attendance of this nobleman because of
his occupying the same position farther on in this country. " A galaxy of cele-
brated actors " belonged to the lodge in the seventh decade of the last century.
The eighth Earl of Dalhousie was " c/i/'<'cprf, passed and raised" on 29th March,
1766, and was present on the 3rd of the following month as " Grand Master elect "
of the Grand Lodge. This " Hop, Skip, and Jump " method of conferring Masonic
Degrees almost equals the experience of the fourth Duke of AthoU, who received
the three Degrees, was elected and installed Master of the lodge, and was elected
Grand Master of the "Ancients" (England), all in one day, viz., March 1st. 1775.
An interesting minute is quoted in full respecting the consecration of a military
lodge in the Masonic Hall of No. 2 on 12th March, 1770. It was entitled " Lodge
of St. Andrew's Royal Arch, in the Scots Greys,'' &c. General Oughton, the
Grand Master, attended (who was a member of Canongate Kilwinning, No. 2),
and a number of distinguished Craftsmen. The first R.W.M. was the Hon. Col.
William Napier (aftewards Lor(i Napier), an initiate of No. 2. On 2nd February,
177s, the Grand Master visited the lodge officially, and testified his highest satis-
faction with its conduct, &c., as an initiate "within this lodge." Alexander
Nasmyth, the well-known artist, was " entered " on February 3rd, 1778, the same
year that the premier Scottish Grand Master died.
The engraver of Nasmyth's portrait of Burns (John Beugo) was initiated on
4th December, 1783, so that both the artist and engraver were members of No. 2,
which lodge affiliated the " Immortal Bard " as a member on February ist, 1787.
On March ist, the R.W.M. of the lodge conferred on Robert Burns the then unique
title of Poet Laureate. The Master was the hero of the " Song of the Whistle "
(the MS. of which was sold last year for 230 guineas), and the S.W. was Wm.
Dunbar, who was styled by the poet "one of the worthiest fellows in the world."
Bro. Mackenzie gives the correspondence between the Scottish Masonic Historian
(Bro. D. Murray Lyon) and the Secretary of No. 2 respecting the Poet Laureate-
ship, the former in his final letter recognising " the satisfactory nature of the «'i-
dence submitted." We entirely concur in that verdict.
Burns was followed in 1835 by the " Ettrick Shepherd," in 1836 by William
Hay, author of a large portion of the songs in " The Lintie O'Moray," Dr. Lane,
Francis NicoU, James Marshall, M. J. Mausibines, and William Pringle following
in due course. In i860, A. O'Neal Haye was the holder of the proud position,
followed in 1872 by Captain Laurence Archer, in 1879 by Dr. Waller, in :88i by
Andrew Stevenson, author of the poem " The Laureate Wreath," in celebration of
the centenary of the inauguration of Robert Burns as Poet Laureate of the lodge,
ist March, 1887 — poetry worthy of the occasion — and this year Bro. Charles H.
M'Kay holds the coveted honour. Dr. Rob Morris, who visited No. 2 August pth,
1878, has since been crowned (with the approbation of the universal Craft) " Poet
Laureate of Freemasonry." William Stewart Watson (initiated in No. 2 March
6th, 1828), was the painter of the celebrated picture of the inauguration of Robert
Burns as Po^ Laureate of the Lodge, the engraving of which is now very scarce and
valuable. The reproduction, inserted in the History^ is of special interest, as also
the accompanying key. Both are exceedingly well done.
* With the greatest difficulty we have determined to close the volume and say no
more. One glance through its subsequent pages was sufficient to assure us that
Bro. Mackenzie has " risen to the occasion " when dealing with the later records,
and has proved most successful a's author of the history of this old and distin-
guished lodge, but it is imptassible for us to do justice to his labours unless we write
as much about the last one hundred years as we have for the previous period. I'his
would scarcely be fair to the author, whose noble work is still for sale, so we have
resolutely determined to stay our hand, and conclude by congratulating the mem-
bers of the Canongate Kilwinning Lodge, No. 2, on their proud heritage, and by
especially and gratefully testifying to the able manner in which Bro. Allan Mackenzie
has discharged his duties as the historian of one of the oldest, one of the most
illustrious, and one of the most benevolent lodges in the world, whose ancient re-
cords not only form a grand monument to the truly Masonic character of the early
brethren, but doubtless act as a constant incentive to the present members to prove
worthy of their time-honoured privileges and possessions.
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